An Introduction to Fungi and Algae

Dr. Linroy Christian

Algae
A diverse group of organisms that contain chlorophyll
Carry out photosynthesis

Normally appear green, but may be brown or red in colour

Other pigments may mask the green colour

Are generally microscopic, but macroscopic forms are common

Some sea weeds grow to lengths of over 100 feet

Algae
Can be unicellular or occur in aggregates (colonies) and may be macroscopic Aggregated forms can be filamentous
Filaments may be branched or unbranched

May also be motile through flagella

Algae
Some may be harmful to humans Can be found in:
Toxic algae such as ciguatera cause fish poisoning

fresh or marine water moist soil or artificial habitats like fish tanks and swimming pools temporary pools of water after rain

Fungi
They lack chlorophyll Cell wall is made of chitin There are three major groups
Molds Yeasts Mushrooms

Can be found in:

Fresh and sometimes in marine water Soil or on dead plant matter Associated with infected tissue

Fungi are parasites of plants and animals

Molds
Filamentous A single filament is called a hypha (plural, hyphae) Hyphae usually grow into a mass called a mycelium (fuzzy growth) which can be seen with the naked eye Hypha may have a cross wall called a septum Specialized hyphae may grow into the air and produce spores Spores generally are coloured are key to the identification of the fungus

Agar Plate Culture

Fungi Cell Structure

Penicillium and Mucor

Aspergillus

Yeast
Unicellular
Spherical, oval or cylindrical

Much larger than bacteria Replicate by budding (asexual reproduction) Capable of sexual reproduction (mating) Common types:
Saccharomyces (Bakers yeast) Candida (pathogenic to humans)

Candida-causes thrush and vaginal yeast infections

Mushrooms
Filamentous
form fruiting bodies that are usually edible

Produce sexual spores that germinate to form mycelia Generally grow on decaying material Some may be toxic to humans

Mushroom