Fungi

Question 1

Describe 4 features of fungi

Answer 1

1. Are eukaryotic and heterotrophic
2. Obtain nutrients from dead/decomposing matter via absorption (saprotrophs)
3. Have long vegetative and brief reproductive phases
4. Reproduce via spores

Question 2

What is another word for ‘true fungi’?

Answer 2

eumycota

Question 3

What are fungi cell walls and membranes composed of?

Answer 3

cell walls - chitin and glucans

cell membranes - contain ergosterol instead of cholesterol

Question 4

Describe the vegetative stage of a fungus

Answer 4

Exist as threadlike hyphae underground/in an organism (mass of hyphae = mycelium)
Seperated by perforated sepa which allows for the flow of nutrients

Question 5

How do fungi reproduce?

Answer 5

The fusion of the hyphae of 2 individuals results in the formation of brief fruiting bodies which have elaborate gills where spores are formed and then released.

Question 6

Why do certain animals cultivate fungi?

Answer 6

Have a symbiotic relationship, whereby animals provide nutrients, potection and spread spores and the fungi provide food either directly or by breaking down plant material

Question 7

Why are fungi important for the environment?

Answer 7

• Essential for the terrestrial carbon cycle

- Unique as they can break down lignin

Question 8

What percentage of plant diseases are fungal?

Answer 8

70%

Question 9

What are mycorrhizal mutualisms?

Answer 9

Where a plant and fungus live in symbiosis as:

• Fungus gains organic carbon from plant photosynthesis
• Plant obtains minerals from the fungus
• 95% of all land plants posses fungal partners

Question 10

How do ‘Achlorophyllous’ plants receive nutrients

Answer 10

From ectomycorrhizal fungi