Chapter 31 Fungi

Question 2

What is plasmogamy?

Answer 2

fusion two haploid cells, but nuclei remain distinct (=dikaryotic cell, n+n; vs diploid 2n)

Question 3

What is Karyogamy?

Answer 3

fusion of dikaryotic nuclei forming diploid zygote (2n)

Question 4

What is meiosis?

Answer 4

diploid zygote forms haploid spores (n)

Question 5

What is Cryptomycetes?

Answer 5

-first described 2013, identified through eDNA
-minimal morphological features -> suggests single-celled or simple mycelial form
-distinct phylogenetic position basal Opisthokonts, sets them apart from other fungi with known sexual reproductive cycles

Question 6

What are Microsporidians?

Answer 6

-once classified as protists  now fungi based on genetic evidence
-obligate intracellular parasites:

Question 7

What are Chytrids?

Answer 7

-mostly unicellular
-flagellated spores (zoospores)

Question 8

What are Zoopagomycetes?

Answer 8

non-flagellated zoospores -> newly derived, likely associated with life-on-land
primarily parasitic -> nematodes, insects, other fungi
coenocytic hyphae -> multinucleate cells lacking septa
host manipulation -> pathogenic effects

Question 9

4 steps in Asexual reproduction?

Answer 9

Hyphal growth
Sporangium formation
Spore release
Germination

Question 10

What is hyphal growth?

Answer 10

The fungus starts by growing hyphae (filamentous structures) that spread across the substrate (e.g., decaying organic matter).

Question 11

What is sporangium formation?

Answer 11

Specialized aerial hyphae (sporangiophores) grow vertically and form sporangia (spore-bearing sacs) at their tips.

Question 12

What is spore release?

Answer 12

Once the sporangium is fully developed, it bursts open, releasing numerous haploid spores (spores that have one set of chromosomes). These spores are released into the air or on the substrate.

Question 13

What is germination?

Answer 13

The released spores germinate in favorable conditions, growing into new mycelium and starting the cycle over again