FungiFungi

A guide to Chapter 7

Fungus (FUHN-guhs): plural

Fungi (FUHN-jigh)

Characteristics of FungiCharacteristics of Fungi

Range in size: Unicellular to MulticellularHeterotrophsAsexually reproduce by spores.Made up of hyphae.

FeedingFeeding

Fungi release chemicals that digest the substance on which they grow.

Then they absorb the digested food.

Decomposers

Structure of FungiStructure of Fungi

Unicellular (yeasts) Multicellular (all

others) Hyphae: threadlike

tubes that make up fungi.

They grow very quickly.

Reproduction of FungiReproduction of Fungi

Reproduce by spores. Tiny reproductive

cells enclosed in a protective cell wall.

Can be carried by the wind.

Spores are produced in Fruiting Bodies.

Forms of FungiForms of Fungi

MushroomsYeastsMolds

MushroomsMushrooms

Shaped like umbrellas

StalkRingCapGills (spores)Can be poisonous.

YeastsYeasts

UnicellularUsed to make bread.Produces carbon dioxide.Reproduce by budding.

MoldsMolds

Fuzzy, shapeless, flat. Used to make food.

Tofu, soy sauce and cheeses.

Provide valuable medicines.

Grow on food.

PenicillinPenicillin

Scottish scientist Sir Alexander Flemming.

1928 Discovered Penicillin

from the mold called Penicillium.

Antibiotic

Fungi and DiseaseFungi and Disease

Damage and kill plants Damage stored crops Produce toxins in

plants that can harm humans and animals.

Can be used as pesticides.

Ringworm, athlete’s foot, toenail fungus.

LichensLichens

Two organisms living symbiotically.

Fungus and Alga Alga is an autotroph

without roots, stems or leaves.

The fungus provides the water and minerals.

Created by Mrs. ScibelliCreated by Mrs. Scibelli

Exploring Life Science (Prentice Hall)Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia