Question

1. You are shown an object that looks superficially like a pale green mushroom. Describe at least three criteria(including anatomical and chemical traits) that would enable you to tell whether the object is a piece of a plant or a piece of a fungus.

2. How might the first mycorrhiza have arisen?

Answer 1

To determine whether an object is a plant or a fungus, you can consider anatomical traits, chemical traits, and growth patterns. Plants have specialized structures like leaves and stems, while fungi have hyphae and mycelium. Plants contain chlorophyll and carry out photosynthesis, while fungi obtain nutrients through decomposition. Examining these criteria can help identify the object.

Step-by-step explanation:

When determining whether an object is a piece of a plant or a piece of a fungus, there are several criteria to consider:

1. Anatomical traits: Plants have specialized structures such as leaves and stems, while fungi have hyphae and mycelium. By examining the object closely, you can look for the presence of these structures to determine if it is a plant or fungus.
2. Chemical traits: Plants contain chlorophyll, which allows them to carry out photosynthesis. Fungi, on the other hand, do not have chlorophyll and obtain nutrients through other means, such as decomposition. Conducting chemical tests, such as using iodine to test for the presence of starch (found in plants), can help identify the object.
3. Growth patterns: Plants typically grow upright, while fungi often grow in a branching or spreading pattern. Examining the growth pattern of the object can provide valuable information about its classification.

By considering these criteria - anatomical traits, chemical traits, and growth patterns - you can determine whether the object is a plant or a fungus.