fungi

• Into how many kingdoms are all living things classified?

  Six kingdoms
• Why are fungi classified into their own kingdom?

  Because they are neither plant nor animal
• What are the three types of fungi?

  • Moulds
  • Yeasts
  • Mushrooms
• What role do fungi and bacteria play in natural recycling?

  They feed on and process dead animal remains
• What is the process called when fungi break down dead remains?

  Decomposition
• What are enzymes in the context of fungi?

  Substances released by fungi to break down dead remains
• What do decaying remains release into the soil and atmosphere?

  Organic, reusable nutrients
• What conditions does mould prefer for growth?


  Damp and warm conditions
• Why should you not eat mouldy food?

  Some moulds can be harmful
• How does mould influence the flavour of cheese?

  By working from the outside in
• What is the role of yeast in fermentation?

  It breaks down sugar to produce carbon dioxide and alcohol or acid
• What gas is produced by yeast during fermentation that makes bread rise?

  Carbon dioxide
• What can be the outcome of eating poisonous mushrooms?

  The outcome can be fatal
• What do fungi use to spread their spores?

  Wind
• What is the function of mycelium networks in fungi?

  To absorb nutrients
• How do fungi break down organic materials?

  By releasing enzymes
• What do fungi absorb for energy and growth?

  Organic materials
• What process do most fungi use for respiration?

  Aerobic respiration
• What type of environment do fungi prefer for growth?

  Darkness or low light
• What temperature range is often ideal for fungal growth?

  20°C to 30°C
• What pH levels do fungi prefer?

  Slightly acidic to neutral
• Why do fungi need space for mycelium to grow?

  To absorb nutrients and grow
• What are the adaptations of fungi for survival?

  • Spore Dispersal: Use wind to spread spores.
  • Hyphae Growth: Extensive mycelium networks for nutrient absorption.
  • Enzyme Secretion: Break down organic material into simpler compounds.
• How are fungi utilized in daily life?

  • Food: Yeasts in bread, beer, and wine; mushrooms as food.
  • Medicine: Some fungi are used in antibiotics (e.g., penicillin).
  • Biotechnology: Studied for breaking down pollutants and producing enzymes.
• What roles do fungi play in ecosystems?

  • Decomposers: Break down dead organic material, releasing nutrients.
  • Nutrient Cycling: Return vital nutrients to the soil.
  • Symbiosis with Plants: Help exchange nutrients through mycelium.
• What is the importance of fungi in ecosystems?

  • Ecosystem Health: Maintain healthy ecosystems by breaking down materials.
  • Carbon Storage: Trap carbon from decomposing materials in soil.
  • Food Source: Used in food production and as food for animals.
• What are the differences between beneficial and harmful fungi?

  • Beneficial Fungi: Used in food and drinks; provide food for animals.
  • Harmful Fungi: Cause diseases in plants, animals, and humans.
  • Edible vs. Poisonous: Not all mushrooms are safe; distinguishing is important.
• What kingdom do fungi belong to?

  Fungi
• What are the main types of fungi?

  • Mushrooms
  • Molds
  • Yeasts
• What is the fruiting body of fungi?

  The part seen above ground, like mushrooms
• What is mycelium in fungi?

  A network of fine threads called hyphae beneath the surface
• How do fungi reproduce?

  Using spores
• What are the main structures of fungi?

  • Fruiting Body: Above ground part (e.g., mushrooms).
  • Mycelium: Network of hyphae below the surface.
  • Spores: Reproductive units carried by wind.
• What are hyphae?

  Multicellular fibers that form molds
• What are yeasts?

  Unicellular fungi
• What are mushrooms also known as?

  Toadstools
• What is the role of spores in fungi?

  To reproduce and create new fungi
• What is the cap of a mushroom?

  The top part of the fruiting body
• What is the stalk of a mushroom?

  The stem that supports the cap
• What are gills in mushrooms?

  Structures that produce spores