Discuss the ways in which fungi are both helpful and harmful to human society

What will be an ideal response?


Fungi are probably responsible for more agricultural crop damage than any other group of plant parasites in the world. Fungi cause irritation from skin infections such as athletes foot and yeast infections. Fungi cause costly damage to homes and communities. Mold in homes and pests such as Dutch elm disease have damaged or destroyed millions of dollars worth of buildings and landscaping. Yet, the essential role of fungi as decomposers and helpers of plants (mycorrhizae) make them an essential part of the web of life. The baking, brewing, and winemaking industries would not exist as they do today without useful yeast species. Fungi and their medically useful metabolic products such as penicillin and cyclosporin have saved countless lives.

Biology & Microbiology

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The function of the prostate gland is to:

A. manufacture and store sperm. B. supply a fluid that increases acidity in the urethra. C. supply a fluid that prevents the destruction of sperms. D. manufacture male sex hormones.

Biology & Microbiology

The light-dependent reactions begin in a grouping of pigment molecules and proteins called a photosystem.

What will be an ideal response?

Biology & Microbiology

Irregular dental hygiene and a high sugar diet may led to tooth decay. Why?

A. Bacteria consume calcium. B. Glucose forms a weak acid when dissolved in saliva. C. High concentrations of sugar soften the tooth enamel. D. Lactic acid fermentation is used to generate ATP under anaerobic conditions. E. Plaque degrades the tooth's protective mucosal layers.

Biology & Microbiology

Current classification of the algae is based on morphologic characteristics

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Biology & Microbiology