The World of Fungi

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and definitions related to the lecture on fungi.

Fungi

A kingdom of organisms that are more similar to animals than plants and play a crucial role in decomposition.

Decomposers

Organisms, like fungi, that break down dead organic material and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Mycorrhizae

Mutualistic associations between fungi and plant roots that enhance nutrient absorption for both organisms.

Hyphae

Tiny, tubular filaments that make up the body of multicellular fungi and grow into their food source.

Mycelium

The interwoven mass of hyphae that forms the vegetative part of fungi and maximizes surface area.

Chitin

A nitrogenous carbohydrate that strengthens the cell walls of fungi, similar to the material found in insect exoskeletons.

Anaerobic respiration

The process by which yeast obtain energy from sugars in the absence of free oxygen, leading to fermentation.

Plasmogamy

The fusion of cytoplasm from two parental mycelia, a stage in sexual reproduction of fungi.

Ophiocordyceps

Commonly known as the zombie ant fungus; it infects ants and manipulates their behavior for reproduction.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The scientific name for baker's yeast, used in fermentation to produce bread, beer, and wine.