Lecture7: Fungi and Animal Diversity

These flashcards cover important vocabulary and key concepts related to fungi and their ecological significance, reproduction, and classification as discussed in the lecture.”}]} This objective will help students prepare effectively for their exam.{

Fungi

A diverse group of organisms essential for nutrient cycling and ecological interactions, known for breaking down organic material.

Mycelium

The extensive network of hyphae in fungi responsible for nutrient absorption.

Heterotrophs

Organisms, such as fungi, that obtain organic nutrients by absorbing them from their environment.

Chitin

The component that makes up the cell walls of fungi, providing structural support.

Decomposers

Organisms that recycle nutrients by breaking down dead organic material; fungi serve this ecological role.

Mycorrhizal fungi

Fungi that form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, facilitating nutrient exchange.

Asexual reproduction in fungi

Occurs through the production of spores via mitosis or simple cell division.

Karyogamy

The fusion of nuclei from two different mating types in the sexual reproduction cycle of fungi.

Lichens

Symbiotic associations between a photosynthetic microorganism and a fungus, often found in diverse environments.

Pathogens

Fungi that cause disease in plants and animals, including humans, responsible for significant crop losses.

Ascomycetes

A group of fungi known as sac fungi, characterized by sac-like asci that produce spores.

Basidiomycetes

A group of fungi that includes mushrooms and puffballs, named for their reproductive structures called basidia.