The Fungi Kingdom

What are the main characteristics of fungi?

Fungi are stationary, eukaryotic, heterotrophic organisms with cell walls composed of chitin. They can be unicellular (like yeast) or multicellular and play crucial roles in decomposition and nutrient cycling.

Hyphae

Thread-like filaments that make up the basic structure of a fungus.

Mycelium

A complex, net-like mass made up of branching hyphae that typically grows in soil or other nutritious substances.

Fruiting body

The spore-producing reproductive structure of fungi, usually visible above ground.

Parasitic

Absorb nutrients from living cells of a host organism (e.g., Cordyceps).

Predatory

Trap and absorb nutrients from prey (e.g., Arthrobotrys).

Mutualistic

Form partnerships with other organisms (e.g., Mycorrhiza with plant roots).

Saprobial

Decompose dead organisms or organic wastes (e.g., most molds).

Budding

A smaller cell develops while attached to a parent cell (e.g., yeast).

Fragmentation

A piece of mycelium breaks off to form a new individual.

Sexual reproduction

Involves the production of spores, which can be carried by wind or water.

Deuteromycota

Known as imperfect fungi; reproduce asexually (e.g., Penicillium).

Chytridiomycota

Mostly unicellular, only fungi with swimming spores; primarily saprophytic.

Zygomycota

Include bread and fruit molds; can produce zygospores (e.g., Rhizopus).

Ascomycota

Produce finger-like sacs during sexual reproduction; includes yeasts (e.g., Saccharomyces).

Basidiomycota

Produce club-shaped structures called basidia; includes mushrooms (e.g., Agaricus).

Lichens

Lichens are symbiotic associations between fungi and a photosynthetic organism (like algae or cyanobacteria). They can withstand harsh conditions due to their ability to retain moisture and nutrients, as well as their resilience to extreme temperatures.