2. Fungi Characteristics
Largest & oldest organisms on earth
Ex) “Humongous Fungus” in Oregon. Covers more than 3 square miles & is 2400 years old
Eukaryotic – has a nucleus
Heterotrophs – must get nutrients by consuming other organisms

3. Fungi Characteristics
Mostly multicellular; some unicellular
Cell wall composed of chitin (a strong polysaccharide)

4. Structure of Fungi Cap Fruiting Body (Reproductive Structure)
Gills (produces Spores)
Hyphae
Mycelium (net-like mass of hyphae)

5. Structure of Fungi
Hyphae: filaments that are the basic structural unit of a fungus
2 types of hyphae:
1. Septate Hyphae: divided into cells. Contain pores to allow nutrients to flow
2. Aseptate Hyphae: No separations (called septa). Allows quick nutrient flow

6. 3 types of Nutrition
1. Saprophytic Fungi: Saprobes are decomposers (organisms that break down dead organisms by releasing digestive enzymes and absorbing the nutrients)
Example) Bracket fungus feeding on a log

7. 3 types of Nutrition
2. Parasitic Fungi: Contain unique hyphae that grow into the host and steal their nutrients Ex) Arthrobotrys: Parasitic soil fungi that trap prey with rings of hyphae

8. 3 types of Nutrition
3. Mutualistic Fungi: Fungi and the other organism work together to live in their specific environment.
Ex 1) Lichen: mutualism between fungi and algae. Fungi provides an area for the algae to grow, and algae provides food produced from photosynthesis.
* Often Pioneer Species – first organisms to grow in a bare environment
* Found in harsh environments