Fungi Chapter 20

Categories of Fungi Multicellular Most fungi Do not contain chloroplasts Unicellular “Yeasts”

Cell Walls Plants - made of cellulose Fungi - made of chitin Chitin is strong and flexible

Fungi Parts - Hyphae Threadlike filaments that make up the basic structure of the fungi’s body (all parts) Provide support Provide a large surface area for nutrient absorption Fig. 20.2 (p. 577)

A netlike mass made up many hyphae Formed below ground Fungi Parts - Mycelium A netlike mass made up many hyphae Formed below ground Absorb nutrients Fig. 20.2

Fungi Parts - Fruiting Body Reproductive structure Above ground portion Fig. 20.2

Obtaining Nutrients & Energy Through Decomposition Saprophytic fungi - feeds on dead organisms or organic wastes Recycle nutrients Fig. 20.4

Obtaining Nutrients & Energy 2. Through Parasitism Absorb nutrients from living cells of another organisms (a host) Fig. 20.4

Obtaining Nutrients & Energy 3. Through Mutualism With another organism, such as a plant or alga Ex: mycelia on a root of a soybean plant Fungus receives sugar from the host plant Mycelia increase water uptake and mineral absorption for the host plant Fig. 20.4

Branches of Fungi Chytrids yeast Common Molds bread mold Sac Fungi morels & truffles, yeast, penicillin producer Club Fungi mushrooms Fig. 20.8

Imperfect Fungi Very diverse group Lack a sexual stage of reproduction Called “Imperfect Fungi”

Benefits of Fungi Decomposers - recycle nutrients Medical uses - penicillin (antibiotic), reduce high blood pressure, control excessive bleeding, treat migtaine headaches, promote contractions during childbirth, prevent organ rejection in organ transplant patients Food - mushrooms, yeast, truffles Bioremediation - cleaning the environment of pollutants

Harmful Fungi American elm trees & American chestnut trees killed by certain fungi Agricultural crops damaged Can act as parasites in humans & other organisms Athlete’s foot, ringworm, yeast infections Fig. 20.15

Moldy Bread Why should you throw away the whole loaf of bread, even if the mold only appeared on one piece?