Eukaryotic Microbes: Fungi, Protozoans, Helminths, and Microalgae Overview

What are the main classifications of eukaryotic microbes discussed?

Fungi, Protozoans, Helminths, Microalgae

What branch of biology studies fungi?

Mycology

What is a yeast?

A unicellular fungus capable of fermenting carbohydrates.

What disease is caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis?

Coccidioidomycosis, also known as valley fever.

What is Candida known for?

Causing yeast infections and being the most common cause of fungal infections worldwide.

What are the common causes of nail infections?

Fungi, with over half of all nail infections attributed to them.

What is ringworm?

A dermatophytosis caused by approximately 40 different fungal species.

What is 'black mold' scientifically known as?

Stachybotrys chartarum

What are mycotoxins?

Toxins produced by some mold species that can cause disease when consumed.

What was the first antibiotic ever discovered?

Penicillin, discovered by Alexander Fleming.

What is the role of fungi as decomposers?

They break down dead material into a usable form for producers.

What are protozoans?

Single-celled, heterotrophic organisms classified based on their motility.

What percentage of protozoans are pathogens?

Approximately 15-20%.

What genus causes malaria?

Plasmodium.

How does Plasmodium falciparum evade the immune system?

Through antigenic variation, changing its surface proteins to avoid detection.

What disease is caused by Trypanosoma?

Sleeping sickness.

What are helminths?

Parasitic worms that are mostly macro parasites and endoparasites.

What is helminthiasis?

An infection caused by helminths.

What are the three main life stages of helminths?

Adults, eggs, and larval stages.

What disease is caused by blood flukes?

Schistosomiasis.

What are the symptoms of schistosomiasis?

Abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stool, liver damage, and kidney failure.

How can blood flukes infect humans?

By penetrating the skin directly.

What is the commonality of parasitic worms in developing countries?

1 in 10 people are infected with parasitic worms.

What is the significance of Cordyceps fungus in host manipulation?

It changes ant behavior, demonstrating how some fungi can manipulate their hosts.