A researcher is investigating two species of fungi, fungus X and fungus Y. The characteristics of each fungus are given in the t
able. Fungus X Fungus Y Location Found compost pile marsh Distinguishing Feature produces stolons and rhizoids pot-shaped Mode of Reproduction has positive and negative mating strands that produce spores produces flagellated spores that survive in water Based on the information in the table, how should the researcher classify each fungus? A. Fungus X is a common mold, and fungus Y is a sac fungus. B. Fungus X is a common mold, and fungus Y is a chytrid. C. Fungus X is a chytrid, and fungus Y is a sac fungus. D. Fungus X is a chytrid, and fungus Y is a common mold.
The correct answer is: B. Fungus X is a common mold, and fungus Y is a chytrid.
A mold is a fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae which form a network known as a mycelium. This group of fungi is important in biotechnology and food science (for example production of foods, beverages, antibiotics, pharmaceuticals and enzymes).
Chytrid ("little pot") refers to group of fungi with chitin cell walls, a posterior flagellum and absorptive nutrition. They reproduce with zoospores (motile asexual spores).
