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National Wildlife Week 2023 - Quiz Series - Fungal Fascinations

Welcome to the "Fungal Fascinations: A Quiz on the World of Fungi"!

Total Questions: 40 multiple choice questions (MCQ), delving into the intricate and intriguing realm of fungi. Time Allotted: 15 minutes. Delve deep into the fungal world, but keep an eye on the clock!

Before you dive into this mycological challenge, please provide the following details on the next page:

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After the quiz concludes, all participants will receive the questions accompanied by their correct answers. Moreover, those who ace the quiz will be honored with a certificate. Good luck and may the spores be with you!

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1. Which of the following is a mutualistic relationship between fungi and plant roots?

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2. Which of the following is an edible mushroom?

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3. The study of fungi is called:

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4. Ergot fungus affects:

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5. Which is NOT a benefit of fungi in ecosystems?

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6. Athlete's foot is caused by:

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7. Which of the following is NOT a type of fungus?

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8. Which of these is a toxic mushroom?

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9. Which fungus is known as the "Witch's Butter"?

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10. Fungi obtain nutrients through:

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11. Some fungi are pathogenic and can cause diseases in:

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12. The largest known organism on Earth, by area, is a fungus. It's known as:

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13. Fungi are more closely related to ________ than plants.

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14. Which fungus is known to control ant behavior, eventually sprouting from their heads?

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15. What color is the spore print of a mature Agaricus bisporus mushroom (white button mushroom)?

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16. Which fungi group primarily consists of single-celled organisms?

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17. The Ganoderma lucidum, commonly known as the Reishi or Lingzhi mushroom, is traditionally used in Indian and Asian medicine and primarily grows on which tree?

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18. Puffballs release their spores through:

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19. Which fungus is responsible for the disease known as 'ringworm' in humans?

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20. Which of these fungi forms a “fairy ring” in grassy areas?

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21. Which fungus is used to produce blue cheese?

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22. Which fungus is crucial in the fermentation of bread?

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23. What helps fungi to grow in various environments?

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24. The primary body of most fungi is called:

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25. Fungi can break down:

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26. The symbiotic relationship between fungi and plant roots is called:

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27. Lichens are a symbiotic relationship between fungi and:

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28. Which component is found in the cell walls of fungi?

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29. Which fungus is responsible for the production of penicillin?

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30. Truffles are a type of:

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31. What is the primary role of fungi in an ecosystem?

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32. Which of the following fungi is considered a major plant pathogen, causing diseases in crops?

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33. Which part of the mushroom releases spores?

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34. Which mushroom species is known for its psychedelic properties?

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35. Which fungi is considered a delicacy and is often hunted by pigs?

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36. What is the main role of the fungal cell wall?

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37. Which of the following fungi is known for its umbrella-shaped fruiting body?

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38. Which of these fungi is known for its bioluminescence?

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39. Fungi reproduce using:

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40. Which of the following is a common mold found on bread?

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Fantastic Fungi: Nature’s Recyclers and More

The kingdom of fungi is as vast and varied as it is crucial to the ecosystem. Ranging from microscopic molds to large mushrooms, fungi play a role that is both versatile and invaluable.

1. What are Fungi?

Fungi are eukaryotic organisms that include yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. Unlike plants, fungi don’t perform photosynthesis. They obtain their nutrients by absorbing organic matter, often breaking down decaying organisms, making them nature’s primary recyclers.

2. Anatomy of Fungi

The primary structure of fungi is the mycelium, a network of thread-like structures called hyphae. Mushrooms, which are the fruiting bodies of certain fungi, have various parts, including a cap, gills, and a stem. It is from the gills that mushrooms release spores, tiny cells that help fungi reproduce.

3. The Role of Fungi in Nature

Fungi play several pivotal roles in the ecosystem:

  • Decomposers: Fungi break down and recycle organic material, from fallen leaves to dead organisms. This decomposition releases nutrients back into the soil, aiding plant growth.

  • Symbiotic Relationships: Fungi form mutualistic relationships called mycorrhizae with 90% of Earth’s plants, enhancing nutrient and water uptake. Lichens are another example, which are a partnership between fungi and algae.

  • Pathogens: Some fungi are harmful, causing diseases in plants, animals, and humans, such as the ringworm-causing Tinea in humans or the crop-damaging Fusarium.

4. Edible, Toxic, and Psychedelic

Fungi offer a range of edibles, from common mushrooms like the Portobello and Shiitake to sought-after delicacies like truffles. However, some are deadly, like the Death Cap (Amanita phalloides). And yet others, like Psilocybe cubensis, have psychedelic properties.

5. Beneficial Fungi in Human Use

Yeast, a type of fungus, is fundamental for baking bread and fermenting alcoholic beverages. Penicillium gave us the antibiotic penicillin. The Aspergillus niger mold is a common sight on expired bread.

6. Intriguing Fungi Facts

  • The largest living organism by area is a fungus, specifically the Honey Fungus in Oregon.

  • Certain fungi, like Cordyceps, can control insect behavior, eventually growing out of their host.

  • The Chaga fungus, believed to have health benefits, predominantly grows on birch trees.

7. The Study of Fungi

Mycology is the scientific study of fungi. Given their crucial roles in the ecosystem, as pathogens, and their myriad uses in human civilization, the importance of understanding fungi cannot be overstated.