How do fungi differ from plants?
Fungi are heterotrophic organisms, but plants are not.
Fungi contain vascular tissues, but plants do not.
Fungi have cell walls of cellulose, but plants have walls of chitin.
Fungi are autotrophic organisms, but plants are not.
Fungi differ from plants in several ways:
1. Heterotrophic vs. Autotrophic: Fungi are heterotrophic, meaning they cannot produce their own food and rely on external organic matter for nutrition. Plants, on the other hand, are autotrophic and can produce their own food through photosynthesis.
2. Vascular tissues: Fungi do not contain vascular tissues, which are specialized tissues that allow plants to transport water, nutrients, and sugars throughout their bodies. Plants, however, have vascular tissues that help them circulate fluids and resources.
3. Cell wall composition: Fungi have cell walls made of chitin, a complex polysaccharide, which provides rigidity and support. In contrast, plants have cell walls composed of cellulose, another polysaccharide that provides structural strength.
It's important to note that not all fungi and plants share these characteristics universally, as there are a few exceptions and variations within these groups.