Chapter 20, Problem 4A

Summary Introduction

Introduction :

Fungi can be either single or multicellular species that are very complex. They are present in almost any environment, but most of them live on the ground, often in soil. It is a member of the eukaryotic organism community which includes micro-organisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as the more common mushrooms. These organisms are classified as a kingdom, which is separate from the other eukaryotic life kingdoms of plants and animals.

Answer to Problem 4A

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option (C) photosynthesis

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Option (C) photosynthesis. Fungi are heterotrophic in nature they obtain food from decomposed organism, parasitism, and mutualism. They do not carry out photosynthesis. So, the correct answer is option (C).

Explanation for incorrect answer :

Option (A) parasitism. Parasitic fungi are those that uses nutrients of the host to obtain food. So, this is an incorrect option.

Option (B) decomposition. Decomposition is the process through which fungi obtain food. They get nutrients from the dead and decomposed organic matter. So, this is an incorrect answer.

Option (D) mutualism. Mutualism is same as parasitic but they carry out a mutual understanding between the host organisms through exchange of nutrients. So, this is an incorrect answer.