c) Sarcophyte and parasitic fungi are widespread in nature. (i) Explain each of the underlined terms. (ii) State a role of each of these types of fungi in the overall scheme of nature. (iii) Give one example of a beneficial fungus and one of a harmful fungus. (iv) State a function for each of the following structures that are found in fungi; rhizoid, sporangioum, gametangium, zygospore.

Leaving Cert Biology Bacteria, Viruses & Fungi: c) Sarcophyte and parasitic fung

c) Sarcophyte and parasitic fungi are widespread in nature - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2005

Question c

c) Sarcophyte and parasitic fungi are widespread in nature. (i) Explain each of the underlined terms. (ii) State a role of each of these types of fungi in the over... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:c) Sarcophyte and parasitic fungi are widespread in nature - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2005

Step 1

Explain each of the underlined terms.

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Answer

Saprophytic fungi: These organisms feed on dead organic matter, playing a vital role in decomposition and nutrient cycling within ecosystems.
Parasitic fungi: These fungi live on or in another organism, often causing harm. They extract nutrients from their host, sometimes leading to the host's detriment.

Step 2

State a role of each of these types of fungi in the overall scheme of nature.

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Answer

Saprophytic fungi are crucial for breaking down dead materials, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem, and maintaining soil health.
Parasitic fungi can impact population dynamics of their host species, influencing community structures and ecosystems.

Step 3

Give one example of a beneficial fungus and one of a harmful fungus.

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Answer

Beneficial fungus: Penicillium chrysogenum produces penicillin, an important antibiotic.
Harmful fungus: Candida albicans can cause infections in humans, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Step 4

State a function for each of the following structures that are found in fungi; rhizoid, sporangioum, gametangium, zygospore.

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Answer

Rhizoid: Functions as an anchoring structure in fungi, assisting in nutrient absorption from the substrate.
Sporangium: It is designed for spore production, facilitating reproduction and dispersal.
Gametangium: This structure is involved in sexual reproduction, housing gametes for fertilization.
Zygospore: It serves as a thick-walled resting spore, protecting the genetic material during unfavorable conditions for survival and later germination.

c) Sarcophyte and parasitic fungi are widespread in nature - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2005

Worked Solution & Example Answer:c) Sarcophyte and parasitic fungi are widespread in nature - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2005

Explain each of the underlined terms.

State a role of each of these types of fungi in the overall scheme of nature.

Give one example of a beneficial fungus and one of a harmful fungus.

State a function for each of the following structures that are found in fungi; rhizoid, sporangioum, gametangium, zygospore.

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