Diseases caused by fungi and protists Flashcards
What are fungal diseases?
Fungal diseases are diseases caused by infection from a fungus. They aren’t often fatal, however can be if they attack the lungs or brain of the already ill.
What is rose black spot?
Rose black spot is a fungal disease of rose leaves. It causes black spots to develop on the leaves to reduce photosynthesis, weakening the plant until it dies. The spores of the fungus are carried by the winds or drops of water.
What are diseases caused by protists?
Diseases caused by protists, a type of single cell organism, are rare but often serious. They usually involve a vector that carries the pathogens.
What are vectors?
Vectors are organisms that transmit pathogens from one host to another.
What is malaria?
Malaria is a disease caused by protists that are carried by vectors in the form of female mosquitos. The mosquito passes the protist into the human bloodstream while she feasts to help her eggs. Malaria causes fever and shaking from the protists bursting out of blood cells, and while it can be treated the drugs aren’t available in countries most affected by malaria.
