Lecture 11: Fungal Cells

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on the key concepts related to fungal cells discussed in Lecture 11.

Fungi

A kingdom of heterotrophic eukaryotes that absorb nutrients and reproduce via spores.

Mycelium

A network of branching hyphae formed by fungi, used for nutrient absorption.

Hyphae

Highly branched filaments that make up the body of multicellular fungi.

Chitin

A structural component of fungal cell walls, similar to that in insect exoskeletons.

Spores

Reproductive cells in fungi that can disperse and germinate into new individuals.

Ectomycorrhiza

A type of mycorrhizal association where fungi form a sheath around plant roots.

Endomycorrhiza

A type of mycorrhizal association where fungi penetrate plant root cells.

Lichens

Symbiotic associations between fungi and photosynthetic microorganisms.

Decomposition

The process by which fungi break down dead organic matter.

Fungal Pathogens

Fungi that cause diseases in plants or animals, such as rusts and molds.

Parasexual Cycle

A method of genetic recombination in fungi that does not involve meiosis.

Signaling Molecules

Compounds used by fungi for communication and material transport.

Virulence Factors

Molecular components that enhance the ability of a pathogen to cause disease.

Carbon Cycling

The role of fungi in breaking down complex organic molecules and recycling nutrients.

Nutrient Transport

The process by which fungi move nutrients across their hyphal networks.