Why is a mushroom considered a heterotroph? a.) it manufactures its own food b.) it divides by mitosis c.)it transforms light energy into chemical energy d.)it obtains nutrients from its environment
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
d.) it obtains nutrients from its environment
Explanation:
A mushroom is considered a heterotroph because it obtains its nutrients from the environment rather than producing its own food. Unlike plants, which are autotrophs and can make their own food through photosynthesis, mushrooms lack chlorophyll and cannot convert light energy into chemical energy.
Mushrooms belong to the kingdom Fungi. Members of this kingdom are heterotrophic organisms, meaning they depend on other sources of organic material for their nourishment. They typically break down complex organic matter from dead plants, animals, or other living organisms through external digestion. Mushrooms release enzymes into the environment to decompose organic materials, then absorb the smaller, soluble nutrients that result from this process.
This method of obtaining food classifies mushrooms as decomposers or saprotrophs. They play a crucial role in ecosystems by breaking down dead matter, recycling nutrients, and contributing to soil fertility. Some mushrooms can also form symbiotic relationships with other organisms, such as trees, through structures called mycorrhizae, where both partners benefit. Even in these cases, the mushroom still depends on the external environment for its nutritional needs, maintaining its heterotrophic classification.
The incorrect options are as follows:
- Option a: Mushrooms do not manufacture their own food like plants. They rely on breaking down organic materials.
- Option b: Although mushrooms do undergo mitosis as part of their cellular processes, this is unrelated to whether they are heterotrophic or autotrophic.
- Option c: Mushrooms do not transform light energy into chemical energy since they lack the structures required for photosynthesis.
In summary, mushrooms are heterotrophs because they absorb nutrients from their environment, primarily by decomposing organic material, which distinguishes them from autotrophic organisms like plants.
