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Multiple Choice
Which statement explains a major taxonomic difference between fungi and plants?
A
Fungi perform photosynthesis, while plants do not.
B
Fungi store energy as starch, while plants store energy as glycogen.
C
Fungi are classified as prokaryotes, while plants are eukaryotes.
D
Fungi have cell walls made of chitin, while plants have cell walls made of cellulose.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the key difference between fungi and plants. Fungi and plants are both eukaryotic organisms, meaning their cells have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. However, they differ in several structural and functional aspects.
Step 2: Focus on the composition of their cell walls. Fungi have cell walls made of chitin, a strong, flexible polysaccharide that is also found in the exoskeletons of arthropods. Plants, on the other hand, have cell walls made of cellulose, a carbohydrate polymer that provides rigidity and support.
Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options. For example, fungi do not perform photosynthesis, as they lack chlorophyll, while plants do. Additionally, fungi store energy as glycogen (similar to animals), not starch, which is the energy storage molecule in plants. Both fungi and plants are eukaryotes, so the statement about fungi being prokaryotes is incorrect.
Step 4: Recognize that the correct answer highlights the structural difference in their cell walls. This is a major taxonomic distinction between fungi and plants and is used to classify them into separate kingdoms.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is: 'Fungi have cell walls made of chitin, while plants have cell walls made of cellulose.' This reflects the fundamental difference in their biology and taxonomy.