Why Fungi Are Not Considered Plants: Key Differences Explained
Discover the fundamental differences between fungi and plants, including cell structure and nutritional methods.
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Fungi are not considered plants because they have different cell structures and nutritional methods. Unlike plants, which produce food through photosynthesis, fungi absorb nutrients from organic matter. Additionally, fungi have cell walls made of chitin, whereas plant cell walls are made of cellulose. This fundamental difference in biology and physiology separates fungi from the plant kingdom.
FAQs & Answers
- What are the main differences between fungi and plants? Fungi have chitin in their cell walls and absorb nutrients, whereas plants have cellulose in their walls and produce food through photosynthesis.
- Why do fungi not photosynthesize? Fungi do not contain chlorophyll and do not perform photosynthesis; instead, they derive nutrients from decomposing organic matter.
- How are fungi classified in the biological kingdom? Fungi are classified in their own kingdom, distinct from plants and animals, due to their unique biological characteristics.