Fungus

Key Stage 3

Meaning

A fungus can be a multicellular or unicellular organism that is neither plant nor animal.

Key Stage 4

Meaning

A fungus can be a multicellular or unicellular organism that contains a nucleus and mitochondria, is surrounded by a cell wall but does not contain any chloroplasts or a permanent vacuole.

About Fungus

The cell wall of fungal cells is made of chitin, rather than cellulose.

Some fungi you should be aware of:

• Yeast - Used in the production of bread and alcohol. However, some species cause infection in humans.
• Mushroom - The fruiting bodies of a larger fungus, most of which are poisonous, but some can be eaten.