Question 1

What are fungi?

Accepted Answer

Fungi are living things like mushrooms, yeast, and molds. They are different from plants and animals.

Question 2

Where do fungi live?

Accepted Answer

Fungi can live almost anywhere, from the soil to the water, and even on our food. They like damp and dark places.

Question 3

Why are mushrooms called fungi?

Accepted Answer

Mushrooms are a type of fungi. They have a special structure that makes them look different from other fungi.

Question 4

What do fungi eat?

Accepted Answer

Fungi eat by breaking down dead plants and animals. This helps to recycle nutrients back into the soil.

Question 5

Are all fungi mushrooms?

Accepted Answer

No, not all fungi are mushrooms. Mushrooms are just one kind of fungi. There are many other kinds, like yeast and mold.

Question 6

How do fungi help plants grow?

Accepted Answer

Some fungi help plants by attaching to their roots. This helps the plants get more water and nutrients from the soil.

Question 7

Can fungi make us sick?

Accepted Answer

Some fungi can make people sick, like mold that grows on old bread. But not all fungi are harmful.

Question 8

Do fungi need sunlight to grow?

Accepted Answer

No, fungi do not need sunlight like plants do. They get their food from breaking down other things.

Question 9

How do fungi spread?

Accepted Answer

Fungi spread by releasing tiny parts called spores into the air. These spores grow into new fungi when they land in a good spot.

Question 10

Why are fungi important to nature?

Accepted Answer

Fungi are important because they help break down dead stuff and recycle it, which helps plants grow.

Question 11

Can fungi be used for food?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many fungi are safe to eat, like the mushrooms you put on pizza. Yeast, a kind of fungi, is used to make bread and beer.

Question 12

Do fungi have a smell?

Accepted Answer

Some fungi have a smell, which can be good or bad. For example, mushrooms can smell earthy, while mold might smell musty.

Question 13

How do mushrooms grow?

Accepted Answer

Mushrooms grow from spores that land on damp, nutritious soil. As they grow, they pop up above the ground.

Question 14

Can fungi glow in the dark?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some fungi can glow in the dark, like the foxfire mushroom. They do this to attract insects that help spread their spores.

Question 15

Are fungi considered plants?

Accepted Answer

No, fungi are not plants. They are a different group with their own unique features.

Question 16

What is mold?

Accepted Answer

Mold is a type of fungi that grows on food and other surfaces. It is fuzzy and can be different colors.

Question 17

How big can fungi get?

Accepted Answer

Some fungi, like the honey fungus, can get really big, spreading over many miles underground. Others, like mushrooms, are small and fit in your hand.

Question 18

Why do some foods get moldy?

Accepted Answer

Mold grows on food when it's left out too long. The mold spores in the air find the food and start growing.

Question 19

Are all mushrooms safe to eat?

Accepted Answer

No, not all mushrooms are safe to eat. Some are poisonous, so it's important to be careful and only eat mushrooms from the store.

Question 20

What do fungi look like?

Accepted Answer

Fungi can look like mushrooms, fuzzy mold, or even just tiny spots. They come in many colors and shapes.

The Mystery of Fungi: Importance and Functions in Nature - 20 FAQs Explained Simply