Fungi can be both unicellular and multicellular. The majority of fungi are multicellular, meaning they are composed of multiple cells. These multicellular fungi typically form structures like mushrooms, molds, and yeasts. However, some fungi, such as yeast, are unicellular, consisting of just a single cell.
In multicellular fungi, the cells are organized into long, thread-like structures called hyphae. These hyphae form a network known as mycelium, which is the main body of the fungus. The mycelium can spread over a large area, allowing the fungus to absorb nutrients from its environment.
Unicellular fungi, like yeast, function as single cells and reproduce through budding or binary fission. They are often used in baking and brewing due to their ability to ferment sugars.
In summary, fungi exhibit a wide range of cellular structures, from single-celled organisms to complex multicellular forms. This diversity allows them to thrive in various environments and play essential roles in ecosystems, such as decomposing organic matter and forming symbiotic relationships with plants.