Study GuidePlant Biology–Fungi: Not Plants1. Ecology of Fungi1.1Where Fungi Are FoundFungi can live almost anywhere—as long as there ismoisture,moderate temperature, andorganicfood. These conditions are common, so fungi are found all over the world.One interesting thing about fungi is how they eat. Theydigest food outside their bodiesand thenabsorb the nutrients. Because of this, fungi oftenlive right inside their food source. When thenearby food runs out, they simply grow into a new area where food is available.1.2How Many Fungi Are There?Scientists estimate that there are about1.5 million species of fungion Earth. However,less than10%of these species have been officially described and studied. This makes fungi one of the leastunderstood groups of organisms.Fungi live worldwide, but scientists believe there may bemore types in tropical regions. This idea ishard to prove because so many species have not yet been discovered.1.3Where Do Fungi Live: Land and WaterMost fungi live on land (terrestrial fungi). Only about500 speciesare known to live in marine(ocean) environments.On land, fungi can live independently or in close relationships with other organisms. Thousands ofspecies formsymbiotic relationshipsor act aspathogensof plants and animals.1.4Fungi as DecomposersFungi play a very important role in ecosystems. They are usually theprimary decomposers,meaning they break down dead plants and animals. They can digest a wide variety of organicmaterials.Preview Mode
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