In fungi, what are hyphae?

• A. Long, branching filamentous cells that form the mycelium and absorb nutrients
• B. Single-celled reproductive spores produced during asexual reproduction
• C. Specialized fungal organelles responsible for ATP production
• D. Photosynthetic tissues that allow fungi to produce glucose from light

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that hyphae are structural components of fungi, not reproductive spores, organelles, or photosynthetic tissues.
2. Recall that fungi are primarily composed of filamentous cells that grow and branch to form a network called the mycelium.
3. Recognize that hyphae are these long, branching filamentous cells that make up the mycelium and are responsible for nutrient absorption.
4. Eliminate options that describe reproductive spores, organelles like mitochondria, or photosynthetic tissues, as fungi do not perform photosynthesis.
5. Conclude that hyphae are best described as long, branching filamentous cells that form the mycelium and absorb nutrients.