Biological Importance of Fungae

Question 1

How are fungi important in terms of decomposition?

Answer 1

Fungi break down remains of dead plants and animals
(can also cause timber, textiles and food to rot)

Question 2

How are fungi important in terms of the food industry?

Answer 2

• provide food (mushrooms)
• used in the production of foods (blue cheese)
• yeasts are used in the production of beer and wine
• yeasts are used in baking bread

Question 3

How are fungi important in terms of medicine?

Answer 3

• antibiotics (penicillin and streptomycin)
• yeasts are used in the production of vitamins

Question 4

What are mycorrhizas?

Answer 4

A root system infected with a fungus, this benefits the host and fungus and improves the absorption of water and mineral salts
(orchids have no root hairs)

Question 5

How are fungi important in terms of diseases?

Answer 5

• plant and animal diseases
  (potato blight, ring worm, athlete’s food)