compare the feeding and digestive behaviour of fungi to that of animals - (Jul/07/2008 )
Briefly compare the feeding and digestive behaviour of fungi to that of animals
Kindly help me with this question....I cant seem to figure it out 
Unlike animals, fungi don't consumer complex substrates - the materials are broken down tosmall molecules that are transported/diffuse into the fungal cell.
For the most part, animals do that too - it is the primary purpose of the gut after all. Though animals can transport more complex substrates and break them down post-absorption.
For the most part, animals do that too - it is the primary purpose of the gut after all. Though animals can transport more complex substrates and break them down post-absorption.
Really a question that sucks! Much too general.
Some animals have extra-intestinal digestion (in various arthropod groups, not only spiders), others don't have guts, but are only one or some cells that "digest" and "ingest" the small molecules similar to fungi (e.g. protozoa).
And what is digestive behaviour? Eating lunch with some dudes in a cafeteria and talk...Or belching? Or preying on food? Some fungi prey on nematodes, kind of trapping them.
One main difference may be the type of food, fungi can digest complex, indigestive molecules as cellulose, keratin and chitin (but some animals can do it too).
> Perhaps no difference at all???
Considered generally as multicellular organisms, "animal" cells are differentiated and organized for various functions including to obtain sustenance (carbon, energy, etc) - and yes - even for eating lunch "with some dudes" (now that was an insightful addition!). Whereas many fungi can organize and differentiate for reproduction, esp. sexual reproduction, they typically do not do so for sustenance. Processing of complex substrates is accomplished through secretion of hydrolytic enzymes into the immediate environment by cells undifferentiated for that purpose.
The pedantic can find exceptions to virtually any generalization - the question asked for generalities.
The pedantic can find exceptions to virtually any generalization - the question asked for generalities.
I'd call it accuracy. Don't like it, if teachers simplify biology so that it don't match up with reality anymore.
Then go teach it your way.
jorge, although some may view your comments/tone as a little rude I love your acerbic wit, it ensures I get a good laugh on a daily basis !