FungiFungi

All are:EukaryotesUse spores to reproduceHeterotrophs that feed in a similar way.

Cell StructureCell Structure

• Yeast are unicellular• Other fungi have cells

arranged in structures called hyphae (hy-fee) Hyphae are branching,

threadlike tubes that make up the bodies of multicellular fungi. Substances move quickly and freely through hyphae.

The appearance of fungus depends on how the hyphae are arranged.

Obtaining FoodObtaining Food

1. Fungus grows hyphae into the food source.

2. Digestive chemicals ooze from tips of hyphae into food.

3. These chemicals breakdown the food so it can be absorbed by hyphae.

ReproductionReproduction

• Fungi reproduce through spores (a tiny cell that is able to grow into a new organism)

• Spores are produced in structures called fruiting bodies.

• Unicellular yeast undergo budding (no spores), just a small cell growing off of a parent cell.

More on reproduction…More on reproduction…

• These 2 forms of reproduction are called asexual reproduction where the reproductive process involves only 1 parent and produces offspring identical to the parent. Fungi use this method when conditions are favorable.

• Fungi use sexual reproduction (reproductive process involving 2 parents) when conditions are unfavorable.

Important Roles of FungiImportant Roles of Fungi

• Environmental recyclers (decomposers)

• Food (mushrooms, cheese, bread, beer & wine)

• Disease (athlete’s foot, corn smut)

• Disease fighting (penicillin)• Lichens (a fungus & algae or

bacteria living together in a symbiotic relationship), helps create soil

There are 4 types of Fungi, see the handout!

Last note:Last note:

• A mushroom went into a bar and saw some algae at a table. He went up to one and said "You're lookin' all gal." She looked him over and said "You look like a fun guy." And they took a liken to each other.

• The End!