Which of the following characteristics do fungi share in common with animals?

Step 1: Analyze the question We need a feature that both fungi and animals have. Let's test each option.

Step 2: Key concept Fungi are heterotrophic, with chitin in their cell walls. Unlike plants, they do not make starch. Like animals, they store excess carbohydrate as glycogen.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Presence of digestive tract – Animals have a digestive tract. Fungi do not. They secrete enzymes onto food outside the body (extracellular digestion) and absorb the digested products. ✘
• B. Movement from one place to another – Most animals are motile. Fungi are generally non-motile (they are fixed, though their hyphae grow). ✘
• C. Storage of carbohydrates as glycogen – Both fungi and animals store carbohydrate as glycogen, whereas plants store starch. ✔
• D. Movement of centrioles during cell division – Animal cells have centrioles. Most fungi lack true centrioles and use spindle pole bodies instead. Higher plants also lack centrioles. ✘

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C.

Exam tip: Remember "Fungi and animals = glycogen; plants = starch." Questions on fungi often compare them with plants (cellulose walls, starch, photosynthesis) and animals (glycogen, heterotrophy). Learn the contrasts.