Question

which of the following is not an ecological role held by chytrid fungi?

• act as decomposers in aquatic ecosystems
• act as gut symbionts to break down cellulose in the guts of cattle
• act as pathogens in amphibian populations
• form mycorrhizal associations with plants

Explanation:

Analyze the ecological roles of chytrids

Using the Chytrids and Fungal Ecological Roles knowledge points:

• Chytrids (phylum Chytridiomycota) are primarily aquatic fungi.
• Many chytrids function as decomposers in aquatic habitats, breaking down organic matter.
• Some chytrids live as mutualistic gut symbionts in the digestive tracts of ruminants (like cattle) to help digest cellulose.
• Certain chytrids are notorious pathogens, such as Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, which causes chytridiomycosis in amphibians and has led to global population declines.

Evaluate mycorrhizal associations

Using the Mycorrhizae knowledge point:

• Mycorrhizae are mutualistic associations formed between plant roots and fungi.
• These associations are primarily formed by fungi belonging to Glomeromycota (arbuscular mycorrhizae), Basidiomycota, and Ascomycota (ectomycorrhizae).
• Chytrids do not form mycorrhizal associations with plants.

Answer:

• Act as decomposers in aquatic ecosystems
• Act as gut symbionts to break down cellulose in the guts of cattle
• Act as pathogens in amphibian populations
• Form mycorrhizal associations with plants (Correct answer)