Which of the following statements regarding fungi is true?

Which of the following statements regarding fungi is true?

• A. Fungi can photosynthesize like plants
• B. Fungi reproduce by creating sclerotia during harsh conditions
• C. Fungi primarily live in aquatic environments
• D. Fungi cannot reproduce in the absence of host plants

Answer: (B)

The statement about fungi reproducing by creating sclerotia during harsh conditions is accurate. Sclerotia are a form of survival structure that some fungi produce in response to unfavorable conditions, such as drought or lack of nutrients. They allow fungi to withstand extreme environmental stress and germinate later when conditions improve, ensuring the continuation of the species. This process is crucial for the survival and propagation of certain fungal species. In contrast, the other statements present misconceptions about fungi. Fungi do not photosynthesize like plants; instead, they are heterotrophic organisms that obtain nutrients by decomposing organic material or forming symbiotic relationships. While some fungi can inhabit moist environments, they are found in a wide range of habitats, not primarily aquatic ones. Additionally, many fungi are capable of reproducing asexually and do not rely exclusively on host plants for reproduction; they can spread via spores that can thrive in various environments.

The statement about fungi reproducing by creating sclerotia during harsh conditions is accurate. Sclerotia are a form of survival structure that some fungi produce in response to unfavorable conditions, such as drought or lack of nutrients. They allow fungi to withstand extreme environmental stress and germinate later when conditions improve, ensuring the continuation of the species. This process is crucial for the survival and propagation of certain fungal species.

In contrast, the other statements present misconceptions about fungi. Fungi do not photosynthesize like plants; instead, they are heterotrophic organisms that obtain nutrients by decomposing organic material or forming symbiotic relationships. While some fungi can inhabit moist environments, they are found in a wide range of habitats, not primarily aquatic ones. Additionally, many fungi are capable of reproducing asexually and do not rely exclusively on host plants for reproduction; they can spread via spores that can thrive in various environments.