Fungi include both microscopic organisms and familiar forms such as mushrooms and molds. Their structures, ways of obtaining nutrients, and varied reproductive strategies make them an important subject in microbiology.
Fungi are heterotrophs: they obtain nutrients from other sources rather than making their own food. Many are saprozoic, absorbing nutrients from dead or decaying material. Although some fungi, such as mushrooms, are large enough to see, many yeasts and fungal spores are microscopic. Microscopic size and medical importance place fungi within microbiology.
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What are hyphae and mycelium?
Hyphae are threadlike fungal filaments. A network of hyphae is called a mycelium and forms much of a mold's body.
How do septate and coenocytic hyphae differ?
Septate hyphae have cross-walls between cells. Coenocytic, or nonseptate, hyphae lack these internal walls.
What is a dimorphic fungus?
A dimorphic fungus can appear in different forms, such as a mold or a yeast, during its life cycle, often in response to environmental conditions.
What are plasmogamy and karyogamy?
Plasmogamy is the fusion of the cytoplasms of compatible fungal cells. Karyogamy is the later fusion of their nuclei.
Which distinctive materials occur in fungal walls and membranes?
What ecological role is characteristic of Glomeromycota?Answer: They form root symbioses that help plants take up water and soil nutrients.
Which reproductive structures are characteristic of many Ascomycota?Answer: Asci that contain sexual ascospores.
How do Microsporidia spores help these parasites enter host cells?Answer: A polar tubule pierces the host cell membrane and enables entry.
What causes ringworm?Answer: Dermatophyte fungi that infect the skin.
Why can selective antifungal treatment be difficult?Answer: Fungi and humans share many features of eukaryotic cells.
Based on Microbiology by Nina Parker, Mark Schneegurt, Anh-Hue Thi Tu, Philip Lister, Brian M. Forster (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.