Question

Which substance forms the cell wall in fungi?
a) Chitin or fungal cellulose
b) Pectin
c)Lignin
d)Suberin

Answer 1

Hint: Fungi are unicellular or multicellular organisms. They are heterotrophic in nature and feed on the dead and decaying matter. Fungi contain a membrane-bound nucleus. The DNA is wrapped around the histone proteins. They also contain another complex cell organelle. They lack chloroplast.

Complete answer:
Fungal cell wall is composed of the complex polysaccharides named chitin and glucans. They provide rigidity to the cell structure. The fungal cell wall is a complex structure. It consists of chitin, alpha and beta linked glucans, glycoproteins, and pigments. They provide rigidity and cell structure and shape. They also act as an interface for the interaction between pathogenic fungi and their host.

Additional Information: -Pectin is found in the cell wall of the plants. It is a water-soluble fiber. It helps in the binding of the cells together. Some fruits are more pectin rich. They are largely present in the peel portion of the fruits of the citrus plants.
-Lignin is the deposition on the cell walls of the plant which helps them obtain the woody texture. Lignin is found in the middle lamella and secondary cell wall of xylem vessels. It helps in providing strength to the plants. It is also found in the epidermal cells. Lignin content in plants increases as it matures into a big plant or tree. It helps in the formation of bark and wood.
-Suberin deposition is found in the outer layer of bark which is the phellem of the periderm. They are dead cells. They help in the prevention of water loss from the tissue present below it. It is also found in various plant structures.
So, the answer is ‘chitin or fungal cellulose’.

Note: Chitin is a long carbohydrate polymer that helps in providing rigidity to the cell wall of the fungi. It is also present on the exoskeleton of various arthropods providing them a rigid body structure. It is also present on the fish’s scales.