Question

Mushroom is
A) Mucor
B) Saccharomyces
C) Agaricus
D) Penicillium

Answer 1

Hint:The kingdom fungi includes yeasts, molds, mushrooms, etc. Mushroom is a fruiting body of a Fungus Agaricus bisporus. It is fleshy and bears spores. Mushrooms are produced above the ground.

Complete answer:
>Option A: Mucor is the microbial genus of fungi. They are infective and are found below the ground in soil and in some plants, decaying fruits and vegetables. Hence, this is an incorrect option.
>Option B: Saccharomyces is a genus of Fungi which mainly includes Yeasts. Hence, this is an incorrect option.
>Option C: The Agaricus genus of Fungi includes Mushrooms. They belong to Phylum Basidiomycetes. Hence, this is the correct option.
Mushrooms are commonly found as parasites and they reproduce via basidiospores. They even have asexual mode of reproduction which occurs via fragmentation, budding or conidia.
>Option D: Penicillium is a genus of Fungi found in the environment. It is involved in production of antibiotics like Penicillin. Hence, this is an Incorrect option.

Additional Information:
i) Agaricus had first originated in Brazil.
ii) They are now sold everywhere in the world.
iii) Worldwide around 300 member species of Agaricus are found.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option (C) Agaricus.

Note:Uses of Agaricus Mushroom
i) Mushrooms are mostly edible.
ii) A medicinal extract of Agaricus can be prepared.
iii) Used for preventing heart diseases.
iv) Can be used as an immunity booster.
v) Treatment of diseases like Cancer, Diabetes (type 2) and high cholesterol problems.
vi) Mushrooms can also help in curing liver diseases and digestive problems.