[Campbell Biology P.705] Fungal cells are protected from bursting due to water uptake by osm... | Practice Question

Fungal cells are protected from bursting due to water uptake by osmosis. Which component is primarily responsible for this protection?

  • A: The continuous cytoplasmic mass in coenocytic fungi.
  • B: The highly absorptive surface area of the mycelium.
  • C: The chitin-strengthened, rigid cell wall.
  • D: The presence of pores in septate hyphae.

Explanation

The text states: 'The movement of water into fungal cells creates pressure that could cause their cells to burst if they were not surrounded by a chitin-strengthened, rigid cell wall.' This clearly indicates that the chitin-strengthened, rigid cell wall is the primary component preventing osmotic bursting.