Fungi: Characteristics and Functions

Fungi are a unique kingdom, distinct from plants and animals, and are crucial to life on Earth. They decompose organic matter, form mutualistic relationships, and can be predators or parasites. Fungi absorb nutrients through enzymes and have cell walls made of chitin. They reproduce via spores and play vital roles in ecosystems and medicine, such as in antibiotic production.

What kingdom do fungi belong to?

• Protista

• Fungi

• Plantae

• Animalia

How do fungi primarily obtain nutrients?

• Producing their own food

• Consuming other organisms

• Absorbing nutrients from surroundings

• Photosynthesis

Which material strengthens the cell walls of fungi?

• Cellulose

• Chitin

• Lignin

• Keratin

Which type of fungi forms beneficial relationships with plants?

• Parasites

• Predators

• Mutualists

• Decomposers

What do predatory fungi use to capture prey?

• Enzymes

• Spore traps

• Modified hoops

• Chemical signals

What is the main body of a fungus called?

• Spore

• Fruiting body

• Mycelium

• Hyphae

How do fungi reproduce?

• By budding

• Both sexually and asexually

• Only asexually

• Only sexually

What is the function of the fruiting body in fungi?

• To absorb nutrients

• To decompose organic matter

• To spread spores

• To photosynthesize

What is the role of fungi in soil health?

• They help track carbon dioxide

• They fix nitrogen

• They deplete nutrients

• They increase soil acidity

Which antibiotic was discovered from a fungus?

• Amoxicillin

• Ciprofloxacin

• Penicillin

• Tetracycline