Question 1

What are fungi?

Accepted Answer

Fungi are living things that are neither plants nor animals. They can be mushrooms, molds, or yeasts and they grow in many different places.

Question 2

Where do fungi live?

Accepted Answer

Fungi can live almost everywhere! You'll find them in forests, gardens, on your food, and even inside your home.

Question 3

What do fungi eat?

Accepted Answer

Fungi eat by breaking down other things like dead plants, trees, and food. They are like nature’s clean-up crew.

Question 4

Are all fungi mushrooms?

Accepted Answer

No, not all fungi are mushrooms. Mushrooms are just one type. Other fungi include mold and yeast.

Question 5

Why are mushrooms important?

Accepted Answer

Mushrooms help break down dead stuff and turn it into nutrients that plants need to grow. They also provide food for animals and people.

Question 6

What’s the difference between mold and mushrooms?

Accepted Answer

Mushrooms are the visible parts of certain fungi and they usually grow above ground. Mold is a fuzzy fungus that often grows on old food or damp places.

Question 7

Can we eat all mushrooms?

Accepted Answer

No, not all mushrooms are safe to eat. Some are very poisonous, so it's important to be careful and only eat mushrooms you know are safe.

Question 8

What is yeast, and what does it do?

Accepted Answer

Yeast is a type of fungus that's used to make bread rise and to brew beer. It helps turn sugar into bubbles that make bread fluffy.

Question 9

How do fungi help plants grow?

Accepted Answer

Fungi can help plants by getting nutrients from the soil and sharing them with the plants. This helps plants grow stronger and healthier.

Question 10

Are fungi plants?

Accepted Answer

No, fungi are not plants. They don't use sunlight to make food like plants do; instead, they break down other things to eat.

Question 11

What is the biggest fungus in the world?

Accepted Answer

The biggest fungus is a giant one living underground in Oregon, USA. It's so big that it's often called the 'humongous fungus'.

Question 12

How do fungi spread?

Accepted Answer

Fungi spread by releasing tiny spores, kind of like seeds, which can float in the air or hitch a ride on animals to find new places to grow.

Question 13

Can fungi be used to make medicine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some fungi are used to make important medicines like antibiotics, which help fight infections.

Question 14

Why might you see mold on old food?

Accepted Answer

Mold grows on old or spoiled food because it eats the food to grow. It's a sign that the food has started to go bad.

Question 15

Do fungi need sunlight to grow?

Accepted Answer

No, fungi do not need sunlight to grow. They can grow in dark places because they get food by breaking down other materials.

Question 16

Why do some people grow mushrooms at home?

Accepted Answer

People grow mushrooms at home because they can eat them, and it's a fun way to learn about growing food.

Question 17

How do scientists study fungi?

Accepted Answer

Scientists study fungi by collecting them, looking at them under microscopes, and watching how they grow in labs.

Question 18

What are some common types of mushrooms?

Accepted Answer

Common mushrooms include button mushrooms, portobello mushrooms, and shiitake mushrooms. They are often used in cooking.

Question 19

Can fungi be harmful?

Accepted Answer

Some fungi can make food spoil or cause illnesses if eaten. It's important to know which fungi are safe and which are not.

Question 20

Do animals eat fungi?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many animals like deer, squirrels, and insects eat fungi as part of their diet. Fungi are an important food source for them.

The World of Fungi: Types, Functions, and Importance - 20 FAQs Explained Simply