Test: Mushroom & Rhizopus - JAMB MCQ

Fungi are heterotrophic organisms, meaning they cannot produce their own food through photosynthesis like plants do. Instead, they obtain their nutrition by absorbing organic matter from their environment. Unlike plants that contain chlorophyll pigments for photosynthesis, fungi lack chlorophyll and rely on external sources of nutrition.

Mushrooms are a type of fungi that belong to the group Basidiomycetes. Basidiomycetes are characterized by the presence of reproductive structures called basidia, which produce spores for reproduction. Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of certain Basidiomycetes, serving as the visible reproductive structures above ground.

Rhizopus reproduces asexually through specialized spore-bearing structures called conidia. Conidia are produced at the tips of specialized hyphae called conidiophores. These asexual spores are dispersed into the environment and can germinate to form new Rhizopus colonies under suitable conditions.

Rhizopus is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains its nutrition by decomposing dead organic matter. It plays an essential role in the ecosystem as a decomposer, breaking down complex organic compounds into simpler forms that can be recycled by other organisms. Rhizopus commonly grows on decaying plant material, fruits, and bread, utilizing them as a nutrient source.

The gills (or lamellae) present on the underside of the cap of a mushroom are responsible for spore production. The gills contain numerous basidia, which are club-shaped structures that produce and release spores. These spores are then dispersed into the environment, aiding in the reproduction of the mushroom.

Rhizopus is commonly referred to as bread mold because it often grows on bread and other food items. It is a fast-growing fungus that thrives in warm and humid conditions. The presence of Rhizopus on bread can lead to spoilage and decay, making it an unwanted contaminant.

Fungi play a vital role in the production of antibiotics. Many antibiotics used in medicine, such as penicillin, are derived from fungal sources. These antibiotics help fight against bacterial infections and have saved countless lives. Fungi produce these antibiotics as a defense mechanism against competing bacteria in their environment.

The fusion of hyphae in Rhizopus results in the formation of a structure called a zygospore. When two compatible hyphae of Rhizopus come into contact, they fuse and undergo sexual reproduction. The fused hyphae form a zygospore, which is a thick-walled structure containing the genetic material of both parent hyphae. The zygospore can survive adverse conditions and germinate to form new Rhizopus colonies when conditions become favorable.

Mushrooms have various commercial uses, and one of them is medicine production. Certain species of mushrooms are used in the production of various medicines and pharmaceutical products. For example, the mushroom species Agaricus bisporus is commonly used in medicine for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Mushrooms have been studied extensively for their potential health benefits and their ability to produce bioactive compounds.

Ascomycetes are known to form symbiotic associations called lichens with algae or cyanobacteria. Lichens are composite organisms formed by the mutualistic relationship between a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium. The fungal component, usually an ascomycete, provides a protective environment for the alga or cyanobacterium, while the photosynthetic partner contributes nutrients through photosynthesis.