Fungi Characteristics and Functions

Eukaryotic organisms with organelles, including microfilaments and tubules.
Basic structural unit is hyphae, which can be aseptate (coenocytic) or septate.
Cell walls consist of chitin and glucan, providing structural integrity.
Fungi are heterotrophic, absorbing nutrients osmotrophically through the cytoplasmic membrane.
Reproduce via spores, with both sexual and asexual processes.
Majority of fungi are non-motile; exceptions include zoospores, which are motile.

Hyphae form mycelium, a mass of branching filaments; vegetative structure termed thallus.
Asexual reproduction involves spore-producing structures and germination of spores.
Sexual reproduction includes steps such as plasmogamy, karyogamy, and meiosis, resulting in spore production.

Hyphal growth allows vegetative parts to be transplanted and to continue growth.
Asexual spore formation is categorized into sporangiospores (enclosed) and conidiospores (not enclosed).
Yeasts reproduce by budding, differentiating them from other fungal forms.

Taxonomy is continuously evolving and includes groups like Chytridiomycota, Zygomycota, Glomeromycota, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota.
The classification is based on reproduction and molecular analysis, with approximately 90,000 species described (potentially 1.5 million).

Commonly known as zygomycetes, primarily saprophytes with some being parasites.
Characterized by coenocytic hyphae and the ability to produce zygosporangium containing zygospores.

Refer to as club fungi, notable for basidiospores produced in basidia.
Most species are saprophytic, with some being significant pathogens or toxic to humans.

Serve as essential decomposers, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients (C, N, P).
Act as disease agents for plants, animals, and humans, with varying levels of severity.

Form lichens in association with algae or cyanobacteria, enhancing survival in harsh environments.
Mycorrhizae are beneficial associations with plants, facilitating nutrient exchange.

Used widely in the production of food and beverages such as bread, wine, beer, and cheese.
Produce important pharmaceuticals like antibiotics (e.g., penicillin) and industrial chemicals.

Superficial infections (e.g., black piedra) affect hair and skin.
Cutaneous infections include conditions like athlete's foot (Tinea pedis).
Subcutaneous infections result in diseases such as sporotrichosis.
Systemic infections can cause severe issues, exemplified by histoplasmosis (Histoplasma capsulatum).