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Multiple Choice
As a group, fungi are _____.
A
obligate parasites incapable of living independently
B
autotrophic organisms that produce their own food via photosynthesis
C
heterotrophic organisms that absorb nutrients from their environment
D
unicellular prokaryotes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'fungi' and their classification. Fungi are a distinct kingdom of organisms separate from plants, animals, and bacteria.
Step 2: Recall the definition of 'heterotrophic organisms.' These are organisms that cannot produce their own food and must obtain nutrients by consuming other organic matter.
Step 3: Recognize that fungi are heterotrophic because they absorb nutrients from their environment. They secrete enzymes to break down complex organic materials into simpler compounds that can be absorbed.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. Fungi are not obligate parasites because many can live independently. They are not autotrophic because they lack chlorophyll and cannot perform photosynthesis. They are not unicellular prokaryotes because fungi are eukaryotic and can be multicellular.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct description of fungi is 'heterotrophic organisms that absorb nutrients from their environment,' based on their biological characteristics and mode of nutrition.