In fungi, what is a hypha (plural: hyphae)?

• A. A spore-producing fruiting body such as a mushroom
• B. A single-celled, oval fungal cell that reproduces mainly by budding (a yeast)
• C. A storage organelle in fungal cells that contains digestive enzymes
• D. A threadlike filament of fungal cells that grows by elongation and can form a mycelium

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that fungi have different structural components that serve various functions, such as reproduction, nutrient absorption, and growth.
2. Recognize that a hypha (plural: hyphae) is a fundamental structural unit in many fungi, characterized as a threadlike filament composed of fungal cells.
3. Note that hyphae grow by elongation at their tips, allowing the fungus to expand and explore its environment for nutrients.
4. Understand that multiple hyphae can intertwine and form a network called a mycelium, which is the main vegetative growth form of many fungi.
5. Distinguish hyphae from other fungal structures such as spores (reproductive units), yeast cells (unicellular fungi), and organelles within fungal cells.