The fungi are distinct group of eukaryote mainly because they have

Analyze the question The question asks what mainly sets fungi apart as a distinct group of eukaryotes, that is, why they are not classified with plants or animals.

Explain the concept Fungi (mushrooms, yeast, moulds) are placed in their own kingdom, Fungi. Their key features are:

• They are eukaryotic, with a true nucleus.
• They have cell walls made of chitin, not cellulose.
• They have no chlorophyll, so they cannot photosynthesise. They are heterotrophic and feed by absorption, as saprophytes or parasites.
• They reproduce by spores.

Evaluate the options

• A. Spores: Fungi do reproduce by spores, but so do ferns and mosses. Spores don't make fungi distinct from all other eukaryotes.
• B. No chlorophyll: This is the major difference from plants. It determines their mode of nutrition and is the classic reason fungi are separated from the plant kingdom. This is the best answer.
• C. Many fruiting bodies: Yeast, for example, has none, so this isn't a defining feature.
• D. Asexual and sexual reproduction: Many organisms, plants and animals included, reproduce both ways.

Answer Fungi lack chlorophyll and therefore feed heterotrophically. This is the main reason they are treated as a distinct group, so the answer is B.

Exam tip Remember "Fungi = Feed on others, no chlorophyll, chitin wall." When a question asks what makes fungi distinct, think of nutrition and no chlorophyll first.