1. Mycology: The study of fungi

2. Characteristics Eukaryotic (have a nucleus) Heterotrophs (most are decomposers) Some are unicellular (yeast) Most are multicellular Cell wall Four main types including lichen

3. Examples: Fuzzy, threadlike moldsFuzzy, threadlike molds Unicellular yeastUnicellular yeast MushroomsMushrooms Lichen (fungus and algae)Lichen (fungus and algae)

4. Acquiring energy  Fungi cannot eat or engulf food. They live on their food source.  Fungi obtain nutrients by secreting digestive juices through their hyphae and absorbing the food.  A mass of hyphae is called mycelium.

5. Reproduction Most Fungi reproduce both sexually and asexually. Spores are tiny reproductive structures formed in fruiting bodies from which new fungi grow. Asexual reproduction in yeast is called budding

6. Effects of Fungi Benefits: 1. Many fungi are decomposers, make some foods(bread, mushrooms), produce antibiotics (penicillin) 2.Fungi grow into plant roots And help them grow better. 80% of all plants have fungal partners on their roots.

7. Effects of Fungi Diseases: Plant diseases: Dutch Elm, corn smut, wheat rust Human diseases: athlete’s foot, ring worm, food spoilage

8. Lichen A relationship between a fungus and an alga.A relationship between a fungus and an alga. Fungus gets food from the alga and the alga gets water, minerals and shelter from the fungusFungus gets food from the alga and the alga gets water, minerals and shelter from the fungus.