Question

All fungi are

(A) symbiotic.

(B) heterotrophic.

(C) flagellated.

(D) decomposers.

Short answer

(A) The option “symbiotic” is false.

(B) The option “heterotrophic” is true.

(C) The option “flagellated” is false.

(D) The option “decomposers” is false.

Step-by-step solution

Fungi

A fungus is either saprotrophs or symbionts. Saprotrophs help decompose dead organic matter, and symbionts obtain their carbon from other living organisms. Fungi can have either a single cell or be a highly complex multicellular organism.

Explanation of option ‘(A)’

Many fungi are not considered symbiotic fungi. Not all fungi get their nutrients from dead organisms. Sometimes, a fungus can be harmful to its host organisms. Other types of symbiotic relationships are i) commensalism and ii) parasitism.

Thus, some non-symbiotic fungi are also present.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option ‘(B)’

Fungi can produce their food unlike humans and only depend on other organisms for nutrients & metabolism. Before making their food, they must gather carbohydrates and other nutrients from animals, decomposed matter, plants, or wherever they stay.

Thus, all the fungi are present under the list of heterotrophs.

Therefore, the given statement is true.

Explanation of option ‘(C)’

Flagella is absent in many fungi. Chytrids are the only group from this kingdom that has flagella. Other groups belonging to kingdom fungi lack flagella in their structure.

Thus, the absence of flagella is a characteristic of most fungi.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option ‘(D)’

Many fungi that are associated with decomposition are known as saprotrophs. A fungus can participate in decomposition and act as a decomposer. Fungi can break down cellulose, and in forests, they are called the primary decomposer.

Thus, all fungi are not associated with decomposition except for saprobic fungi.

Therefore, the given statement is false.