sporulate

/ˈspɔr.jə.leɪt/
verb
  1. To produce or release spores (tiny reproductive cells), as certain bacteria, fungi, and plants do.
    • Scientists observed the mold sporulate under the microscope as it prepared to reproduce.
    • Fungi sporulate in damp environments, releasing millions of spores into the air.
    • When conditions become harsh, the bacteria begin to sporulate to survive.
What does "sporulate" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean