Lecture_12_-_Fungi_2024

Fungi

A kingdom of organisms that exhibit eukaryotic cells, have a cell wall composed of chitin, and can be single-celled or multicellular.

Chitin

A structural polysaccharide that makes up the cell wall of fungi.

Heterotrophy

The method by which fungi acquire energy and nutrients, involving the consumption of organic matter.

Saprophytes

Fungi that decompose dead organic matter and play a crucial role in nutrient cycling.

Mycelium

The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a mass of branching, thread-like hyphae.

Asexual reproduction

A mode of reproduction in fungi where a haploid mycelium produces haploid spores by mitosis.

Zygote

A diploid cell resulting from the fusion of haploid nuclei from two mycelia of different mating types.

Meiosis

The process by which a diploid zygote divides to produce haploid spores.

Mycorrhizal fungi

Fungi that form symbiotic associations with plant roots to exchange nutrients.

Mycotoxins

Toxic compounds produced by fungi that can have harmful effects on human health.