Final answer:
The statement that fungi consist of masses of intertwined filaments called conidia is false. The correct term for the masses of intertwined filaments in fungi is hyphae, which together form a mycelium. Conidia are part of the reproductive structures, not the vegetative body of the fungus.
Step-by-step explanation:
True or False: Fungi consist of masses of intertwined filaments which are called conidia. This statement is False. In fungi, the masses of intertwined filaments are actually called hyphae. These hyphae collectively form a network known as a mycelium, which is the vegetative part of a fungus. Conidia, on the other hand, are asexual, non-motile spores produced by fungi and are a part of the reproductive structure, not the vegetative structure.
Fungi have a cell wall and their body mainly consists of hyphae. These thread-like structures may bunch up into a mycelium, which serves as the extensive feeding structure of the fungus. It is important to note that although hyphae may be known to branch and fuse, this network of structures as a whole is referred to as mycelium, whereas conidia are specific structures associated with the reproductive process of fungi like those found in the genera of Penicillium and Aspergillus.