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

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

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

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

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

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

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