Difference Between Algae and Fungi, Major Differences

Difference Between Algae and Fungi Overview

Both algae and fungi fall under different kingdoms: algae belong to the Protista kingdom, while fungi belong to the Fungi kingdom. Both of these organisms are eukaryotic in nature.  The Protista kingdom encompasses not only algae but also protozoans and certain molds. Algae contribute to ecosystem production and are vital producers of oxygen through photosynthesis. Fungi, conversely, form structures called fungal hyphae. Both algae and fungi contribute to the creation of a structure known as the thallus.

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Difference Between Algae and Fungi in Tabular Form

Algae are autotrophic organisms that contain chlorophyll necessary for photosynthesis. In contrast, fungi are heterotrophic, obtaining organic nutrients from their external environment. Below table shows the difference between algae and fungi .

What is Algae?

Algae are primarily plant-like organisms, often unicellular, with a vast diversity found throughout the Earth. They play a crucial role in ecosystems by contributing to aquatic food chains and are responsible for releasing approximately 70% of the Earth's oxygen into the atmosphere. Each algal cell typically contains a singular chloroplast, essential for conducting photosynthesis. Interestingly, certain algae can thrive in darkness, classifying them as heterotrophs. Cyanobacteria, commonly referred to as blue-green algae, are a distinct type of microalgae that do not fall under eukaryotic algae. These organisms engage in sexual reproduction through gamete fusion. In eukaryotic algae, a sexual dimorphism exists, leading to the production of male and female gametes by separate individuals. Their asexual reproduction methods encompass producing motile spores and undergoing mitotic division. Notably, macroalgae like giant kelp feature a multicellular structure resembling a thallus. 

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What is Fungi?

Initially, fungi were believed to be a part of the plant kingdom. However, advancements in technology revealed that they don't rely on sunlight for nourishment, unlike plants that undergo photosynthesis. Unlike more complex plants such as angiosperms, fungi lack distinct features like leaves or flowers. The fungal kingdom encompasses a broad spectrum of organisms, ranging from simple unicellular forms to intricate multicellular structures. Fungi derive their sustenance by decomposing and breaking down deceased or decaying plant matter. For instance, yeast, a type of fungi, consists of single-celled organisms and holds significant economic value, especially in the food and beverage sectors. While mushrooms, another fungal variety, are culinary delights in numerous cultures, some species can be toxic, posing health risks due to their poisonous properties. The structure of multicellular fungi comprises intertwined cells that resemble tree branches, known as hyphae. These hyphae come in two primary forms: coenocytic, where cells align continuously without partitioning, and septate, where cross-walls segment the hyphae into distinct compartments. Given their inability to photosynthesize and produce their own nutrients, fungi act as heterotrophs, obtaining nourishment by decomposing organic substances.