Question

The fungus used for the commercial production of SCP is
A. Pentadiplandra brazzeana
B. Fusarium graminearum
C. Brassica napus
D. Bacillus thuringiensis
E. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: Fungus refers to the eukaryotic organisms which include microorganisms like yeast and mold. Fungi do not produce their own food. Therefore, they are called heterotrophs. The term SCP stands for single cell protein. They are edible unicellular organisms.

Complete answer: The unicellular microorganisms such as yeast, mold, and mushroom are fungus. Fungus belongs to the group of eukaryotic organisms. They do not regulate the function of photosynthesis and hence cannot produce their own food. Therefore, they are called heterotrophs. The characteristic feature of microorganisms belonging to kingdom fungi contains chitin in their cell wall. This makes them different from plants and animals. Hence, they are grouped as a different kingdom called a fungus. They acquire their food by absorbing the dissolved molecules by secreting the digestive enzymes in their environment. fungus like mushrooms and truffles is used as a direct source of food by humans. A fungus is also used as a leavening agent in bread and for the purpose of fermentation of food products such as wine, soy sauce, and beer. Single cell protein is also called microbial protein. They are unicellular organisms that are edible. Algae, bacteria, yeast, and fungi which are edible or can be used as an ingredient in the production of food are called SCP. The fungi which grow on cellulose starch, waste, and sulphite such as Fusarium graminearum, Paecilomyces variotii, and Chaetomium celluloliticum are used in the commercial production of SCP.
So, option B is the correct option.

Note: Fungus plays an important role in the decomposition of organic matter. It also plays a vital role in the nutrient cycle and exchange in the environment. Single cell protein is commonly grown on waste, especially agricultural waste. It can be grown independently through autotrophic growth.