Kingdom Fungi

Short Definition

Kingdom Fungi includes eukaryotic, mostly multicellular organisms that absorb nutrients from organic matter.

Detailed Explanation

Fungi are non-photosynthetic organisms that obtain food by absorption. They have cell walls made of chitin and reproduce by spores. Fungi can be beneficial, like in food production, or harmful as parasites.

Characteristics

• Eukaryotic cells with nucleus
• Mostly multicellular (yeast is unicellular)
• Heterotrophic nutrition (saprophytic, parasitic, or mutualistic)
• Cell walls made of chitin
• Reproduce sexually and asexually

Examples

• Mushrooms
• Yeast
• Mildew
• Penicillium

Importance

Fungi are used in food (bread, cheese), medicine (antibiotics), and decomposition of organic matter. Some fungi are pathogens causing diseases in plants and animals.