Fungi and Their Interactions

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to fungi, including their structures, functions, and interactions with other organisms.

Fungi

Heterotrophic organisms essential for life, feeding by absorbing nutrients through enzymes that break down complex molecules.

Decomposers

Fungi that break down and absorb nutrients from nonliving organic material, recycling substances like cellulose and lignin.

Ergotism

A condition caused by toxins from the fungus ergot, leading to symptoms like gangrene, spasms, hallucinations, and insanity.

Mycosis

A fungal infection in animals, which can be systemic and spread throughout the body.

Mycorrhiza

A mutualistic relationship between fungi and plant roots, promoting nutrient exchange.

Plasmogamy

The union of the cytoplasm from two parent mycelia, a stage in fungal sexual reproduction.

Karyogamy

The fusion of nuclei from two parent mycelia, producing diploid cells.

Coenocytic fungi

Fungi that lack septa and consist of a continuous cytoplasmic mass containing multiple nuclei.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

Fungi that extend arbuscules through root cell walls, forming beneficial relationships with plants.

Zygomycetes

Fast-growing fungi, including black bread mold, that reproduce asexually and form zygosporangia.

Basidiomycetes

Fungi that include mushrooms and puffballs, forming mycorrhizae, decomposing wood, and producing basidiospores.

Lichens

Symbiotic associations between photosynthetic microorganisms and fungi, important for pioneering rock and soil surfaces.

Chytrids

A phylum of fungi found in water, characterized by flagellated spores known as zoospores.