Question

The most important adaptive advantage associated with the filamentous nature of fungal mycelia is

(A) the ability to form haustoria and parasitize other organisms.

(B) the potential to inhabit almost all terrestrial habitats.

(C) the increased chance of contact between mating types.

(D) an extensive surface area well suited for invasive growth and absorptive nutrition.

Short answer

(A) The option “the ability to form haustoria and parasitize other organisms” is false.

(B) The option “the potential to inhabit almost all terrestrial habitats” is false.

(C) The option “the increased chance of contact between mating types” is false.

(D) The option “an extensive surface area well suited for invasive growth and absorptive nutrition” is true.

Step-by-step solution

Mycelium

The term mycelium considers the vegetative part of a fungus that consists of hyphae (thread-like structure). It develops the thallus of fungi and is vital for nutrient absorption. The mycelium is a network of hyphae and often grows under the soil.

Explanation of option ‘(A)’

A haustorium forms when the fungal hypha penetrates the cell of plants and expands inside the plant cell. Haustorium is a special branch of the fungus that originates from the hypha.

Thus, the filamentous nature of the mycelium is not associated with the formation of haustoria.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option ‘(B)’

A filamentous mycelium cannot occupy all other terrestrial organisms’ habitats. Mycelia help in the decomposition and are essential for the aquatic ecosystem. The terrestrial ecosystem also needs mycelium for decomposition.

Thus, occupying all terrestrial habitats is not an advantage of filamentous mycelium.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option ‘(C)’

The filamentous mycelium can be divided into segments, and each of those segments grows and develops new offspring. It is not related to any mating type or purposes and enhances their chances.

Thus, the mycelium will not provide any benefit during mating.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option ‘(D)’

The mycelium is the part of fungi’s structure through which they absorb nutrients and are essential for their invasive growth. The mycelium has large surface areas used for absorption.

Thus, mycelium is essential for absorption (nutrients) and is associated with invasive growth.

Therefore, the given statement is true.