Biological Classification · Question 112

Adhesive pad of fungi penetrates the host with the help of

1. mechanical pressure and enzymes
2. hooks and suckers
3. softening by enzymes
4. only by mechanical pressure

Answer

(1) mechanical pressure and enzymes

Solution

The adhesive pad of a parasitic fungus is the appressorium, formed at the tip of the germ tube on the host surface.

It develops a very high turgor pressure, which pushes a fine penetration peg through the host surface (mechanical pressure).

At the same time it secretes enzymes (cutinases, cellulases, pectinases) that soften the cuticle and cell wall.

∴ Penetration occurs with the help of mechanical pressure and enzymes.

Answer: (1)