4.1.1: Communicable Diseases: Fungi Flashcards
What are fungi?
Eukaryotes that cause many plant diseases and can be multicellular or single-celled
Example: Unicellular strain of yeast causes thrush
How do pathogenic fungi operate?
They are parasitic, releasing enzymes to digest the host’s tissue
Hosts can be animals or plants
What causes Black sigatoka?
Mycosphaerella fijiensis fungus
It infects bananas and damages leaves
What are the effects of Black sigatoka on banana plants?
Leaves turn black and plant growth is prevented
Fungicides can be used to kill the fungus
What is a method to control Black sigatoka?
Use of fungicides and development of resistant strains
Resistant strains have been developed to combat the fungus
What causes ringworm?
Trichophyton verrucosum
It infects many mammals, including humans
What are the symptoms of ringworm?
White, crusty circles on the skin
It can cause itching and discomfort
Is ringworm harmful?
No, it is not harmful
However, it can cause itching and discomfort
What causes Athlete’s foot?
Tinia pedia
It only infects humans
Where does Athlete’s foot thrive?
Warm, damp regions between the toes
It is a type of ringworm
What are the symptoms of Athlete’s foot?
Skin cracks, becomes scaly, causing itchiness and soreness
It can lead to discomfort
How can Athlete’s foot be treated?
Using antifungal creams
Effective in curing the infection
