Fungi is the plural of fungus, a kingdom of multicellular heterotrophs. They feed primarily on decomposing plant material, aided by their ability to produce cellulose. They reproduce using spores.
The fruiting bodies of fungi are known as mushrooms, and are used for culinary purposes or intoxication depending on variety, although many contain deadly toxins. The scientific study of fungi is known as mycology.
In the biblical creation worldview, fungi were created by God during the Creation Week approximately 6,000 years ago. The Bible suggests that the mycorrhizal, endophytic, and land-dwelling, saprophytic fungi were likely created on Day 3 along with plants, while other fungi (that is, animal-associated Candida spp. and the aquatic Chytridiomycetes) were created on Days 5 and 6.[1]
Categories: [Biology] [Soil] [Gardening Glossary] [Permaculture]