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Questions and Answers
What is the branch of science that deals with the study of fungi called?
Mycology
Which of the following characteristics distinguishes fungi from the rest of the plant kingdom?
Fungi require light for active growth and metabolism.
False
What type of environments do fungi flourish well in?
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Where is the most usual habitat of fungi?
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Some fungi thrive as parasites on both plants and _____
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Slime moulds are considered fungi by all mycologists.
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Study Notes
Introduction to Fungi
- Mycology is the study of fungi.
- Fungi are characterized by their thallus structure, lacking chlorophyll for photosynthesis.
- They are distinguished from other organisms by their lack of chlorophyll and differentiation into true roots, stems, and leaves.
- Fungi have a cell wall and nucleus but lack chlorophyll and vascular tissues.
- Slime moulds are sometimes included in the Myxomycetes group alongside fungi, although some mycologists consider them separate.
- Bacteria are excluded due to their lack of a nucleus.
Habitat and Occurrence
- Fungi are ubiquitous with over 100,000 species distributed worldwide.
- They thrive in various habitats where organic material is available.
- Their lack of chlorophyll means they do not require light for growth.
- Fungi flourish in moist, dark, and warm conditions.
- Can be found in extremely cold temperatures and hot deserts.
- Some spores and conidia can survive in completely dehydrated conditions.
- The most usual habitat is wet soil rich in humus.
- Fungi found in these habitats are considered advanced, such as Agaricus, Morchella, and Peziza.
- Some are aquatic, like Saprolegnia, considered primitive.
- Some are subterranean (growing underground).
- They can contaminate foodstuffs like bread, jams, pickles, fruits, and vegetables.
- Some can contaminate drinking water.
- Can be parasitic to plants and animals, causing diseases like candidosis (caused by Candida albicans) and aspergillosis (caused by Aspergillus sp.).
Nutrition and Relationships
- Fungi are heterotrophic, meaning they obtain food from other organisms.
- They are either saprophytes, which feed on dead organic matter, or parasites, which live on living organisms.
- Saprophytes play an important role in breaking down dead organic matter and recycling nutrients.
- Parasites can cause disease in their hosts, such as the potato blight caused by Phytophthora infestans.
- Some fungi have symbiotic relationships, such as mycorrhizae, where they live in close association with plant roots, exchanging nutrients and water.
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Description
This quiz explores the fascinating world of fungi, covering their characteristics, habitats, and classification. Learn about mycology, the unique traits that distinguish fungi from other organisms, and their diverse environments. Test your knowledge on the over 100,000 species and their adaptability across different conditions.
