Fungi Review Flashcards

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to fungi, including structural characteristics, nutritional modes, reproduction methods, and important groups within the fungi kingdom.

Hyphae

Microscopic filaments that compose the body of fungi.

Mycelium

Larger networks formed by converging hyphae that are visible to the naked eye.

Chitin

The substance that mainly composes the cell walls of fungi, also found in arthropods' exoskeletons.

Saprophytic

Refers to fungi that break down organic matter in the soil.

Heterotrophic

Describes organisms that must consume other organisms for energy.

Dikaryotic

A cell stage in fungi where two separate haploid nuclei coexist without fusing.

Basidiomycetes

A major group of fungi that typically produce mushrooms with caps, gills, and stalks.

Ascomycetes

Fungi that often have cup-shaped structures and include molds, yeasts, and truffles.

Lichens

Symbiotic organisms consisting of a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, such as algae.

Mycorrhizae

Symbiotic association between fungal hyphae and plant roots that enhances nutrient absorption.

Fairy Rings

Circular formations of mushrooms that radiate outward, indicating a network of underground hyphae.

White Rot Fungi

Fungi that decompose lignin, leading to the breakdown of wood material.

Brown Rot Fungi

Fungi that decompose cellulose and leave lignin behind, causing wood to turn brown and brittle.

Opisthokonta

The clade that includes both fungi and animals, characterized by rear-flagellated cells.

Prototaxites

An early fungus, believed to be tree-like, that existed approximately 450 million years ago.

Penicillium

Famous ascomycete mold known for its role in producing antibiotics.

Ergot

A type of ascomycete that infects grains and can contaminate food.