Hyphae that extend above the surface of a fungus's habitat typically support spores.

These aerial hyphae are often called conidiophores, and they bear specialized structures called conidia at their tips. Conidia are the reproductive spores of the fungus, and they are dispersed by wind, water, or other means to establish new colonies.

While hyphae can support other structures like fruiting bodies in some fungi, their primary function above ground is to support and disperse spores.