6.07 A Fungus among Us

Oh, wow! Come over here! We've hit the jackpot already.

Just look at all these different kinds of fungi. I knew this was the perfect time for this kind of walk. It rained two nights ago, so the forest floor is pretty moist. Can you believe all the variety?

Fast Facts about Fungi

Take a minute to add this information to your Travel Log! (Notes Page)

• All fungi have eukaryote-type cells.
• Fungus cells have a cell wall made out of a special sugar called chitin. (FYI: Chitin is also found in the hard outer covering of insects.)
• Fungi are heterotrophs ... they are decomposers!
• Fungi are multicellular, with one exception—yeast. Yeast are single-celled fungi.
• Most fungi love warm, moist habitats, but a few thrive at cooler temperatures.

Take each of the Side Trips below to learn more (add information in these side trips to your Travel Log).

Side Trip 1: Reproduction through Spores         Side Trip 2: Importance of Fungi

Activity

Fungi are a very important group of organisms. As decomposers, they're an important part of the balance in natural processes. And as you know, some fungi cause diseases in humans, other animals, and also in plants. Nail fungus and athlete's foot, for example, are two fungi that can cause problems for humans.

In the articles below you'll read about a fungus that is killing amphibians like frogs and salamanders.

• Copy these questions into your Travel Log.
• Answer the questions as you read.
  • How does the fungus kill the frogs?
  • What are some ways the fungus can be transported from environment to environment?
  • How would the quality of our lives change if the population of amphibians were to decrease?

National Science Foundation:
Outbreak: Rapid Appearance of Fungus Devastates Frogs, Salamanders in Panama

Australian Government: Chytridiomycosis

Move to the Travel Log to complete this activity.