The body of a typical fungus is termed a(n)
Multiple Choice
antheridium.
mycorrhiza.
sporangium.
hypha.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: hypha
The body of a typical fungus is made up of structures called hyphae. A hypha is a long, branching filamentous structure that is the basic building block of the fungal body. When many hyphae group together, they form a network known as a mycelium, which is the main vegetative part of the fungus.
Hyphae grow by extending their tips, allowing the fungus to spread and colonize new substrates. These structures help the fungus absorb nutrients from its environment. Most fungi are saprotrophs, meaning they feed on dead or decaying organic matter. The hyphae release digestive enzymes into the surroundings and then absorb the resulting small organic molecules through their cell walls.
There are two main types of hyphae: septate and coenocytic. Septate hyphae have cross-walls called septa that divide the cells, while coenocytic hyphae lack septa and contain many nuclei within a single continuous cytoplasmic mass. This structure allows for efficient movement of nutrients and organelles.
Hyphae play essential roles in various biological processes. In addition to nutrient absorption, they are involved in reproduction. Some specialized hyphae form structures like sporangia, which produce spores. Other forms of hyphae interact with plant roots to form mycorrhizae, a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the fungus and the plant.
The other choices do not represent the main body of a fungus:
- Antheridium refers to a male reproductive structure in some fungi and algae.
- Mycorrhiza is a mutualistic association between a fungus and a plant root.
- Sporangium is a spore-producing structure, not the vegetative body.
Therefore, hypha is the correct term for the body structure of a typical fungus.