Fungi Overview and Classification

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Questions and Answers

Which division of fungi produces non-motile spores?

Amastigomycota (correct)

Chytridiomycota

Deuteromycota

Zygomycota

Which division is known for reproducing asexually by motile zoospores?

Ascomycota

Chytridiomycota (correct)

Zygomycota

Basidiomycota

What type of reproduction is associated with Basidiomycota?

Sexual reproduction through basidiospores (correct)

Asexual reproduction through motile zoospores

Sexual reproduction is unknown

Asexual reproduction through spore

Which division is known for having a sexual reproduction mechanism that is unknown?

Deuteromycota Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following fungi is an example of Ascomycota?

Morels Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about Chytridiomycota?

They reproduce asexually by zoospores. Signup and view all the answers

What role do saprophytes play in the ecosystem?

They decompose dead tissue or organic matter. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit mycorrhizae provide to their host plants?

They extend root surface area for enhanced water and nutrient uptake. Signup and view all the answers

How can parasitic fungi negatively impact trees?

By blocking vascular tissues, slowing water and nutrient transport. Signup and view all the answers

Which sign is NOT a common indication of parasitic fungi in trees?

Bright green leaves. Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is used to identify poisonous fungi?

Bulbs or rings present on the stem. Signup and view all the answers

What describes edible mushrooms in terms of gill color?

Gills should be tan or brown. Signup and view all the answers

Which condition suggests the presence of root rot caused by fungi?

Crumbly or soft wood near the plant base. Signup and view all the answers

What should never be done when unsure about mushroom edibility?

Eat the mushroom without validation. Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary components of fungi cell walls?

Cellulose and/or chitin Signup and view all the answers

How do fungi obtain energy and grow?

They require water and oxygen Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes fungi?

They share characteristics with both plants and animals Signup and view all the answers

What is the aggregate structure of hyphae called in fungi?

Mycelium Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated range of identified fungal species?

70,000 to 100,000 Signup and view all the answers

What type of growth do fungi exhibit?

Indeterminate clonal growth Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Fungi Overview

Fungi diverged from a common ancestor approximately 1.5 billion years ago and fully colonized land around 500 million years ago.
They are distinct life forms, neither plants nor animals, yet share characteristics of both groups.
Fungi have cell walls composed of chitin and/or cellulose.

Biological Characteristics

Fungi are eukaryotic organisms with true nuclei and organelles.
Require water and oxygen; do not include obligate anaerobes.
Thrive in diverse habitats as long as organic matter is available.
Approximately 70,000 to 100,000 species have been identified.

Fungal Structure

Exhibit indeterminate clonal growth; can be unicellular (yeasts) or multicellular (hyphae).
Mycelium is an aggregate of hyphae, while sclerotium is a hardened mass of mycelium.
Fruiting bodies, such as mushrooms, are composed of hyphae.

Ecological Roles

Acts as saprophytes, decomposing dead tissue and organic matter.
Forms symbiotic relationships as symbionts, notably through mycorrhizae with plants to enhance nutrient uptake.
Can be parasites, feeding on living tissue in animals and humans.

Mycorrhizal Relationships

Mycorrhizae grow inside/outside plant roots to increase water and nutrient absorption.
In return, plants provide mycorrhizae with carbohydrates.
Fungal competition can affect tree health by competing for nutrients and potentially causing decay.

Interaction with Trees

Fungal mycelium can obstruct tree vascular tissues (xylem and phloem), impacting nutrient and water transport.
Fungi may release toxic compounds and enzymes that damage tree tissues.
Armillaria (honey fungus) is known to cause root rot, leading to decreased stability.

Identifying Parasitic Fungi

Look for fruiting bodies such as mushrooms and bracket fungi.
Check tree bark for discoloration, dark spots, or unusual patterns.
Examine tree bases for fungal mycelia around roots and signs of decay in the wood.

Recognizing Poisonous and Edible Fungi

Poisonous fungi may have irregular caps, discolored gills, and foul odours.
Edible mushrooms often have smooth caps, brown or tan gills, and lack stem rings.
Always confirm identification before consumption.

Fungi Divisions

Amastigomycota: Non-motile spores; chitin cell walls.
Chytridiomycota: Asexual reproduction through motile zoospores; single posterior flagellum.
Zygomycota: Elongated multiple haploid nuclei; asexual reproduction via spores.
Ascomycota: Sexual reproduction by forming sacs; includes morels and yeast.
Basidiomycota: Sexual reproduction through basidiospores; includes mushrooms and puffballs.
Deuteromycota: Sexual reproduction remains unknown.

Fungal Diversity

Non-motile spores and chitin cell walls are common characteristics.
Decomposers of organic materials; significant examples include bread mould and various fungi affecting amphibian populations.

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Description

Explore the fascinating world of fungi with this quiz. Learn about their unique characteristics, evolutionary history, and their ecological importance. Discover how fungi differ from plants and animals while playing crucial roles in various ecosystems.