Discussion:
Bacteria, Fungi and Antibiotics Competition
1.When bacteria and fungi are competing for the same resources, the bacteria usually dominate and prevent the fungi from growing. As a result, fungi have adapted so that they can live (and thrive) in environments that are very hostile to bacteria. Give five examples of fungal adaptations that allow them to colonize environments that are hostile to bacteria.
2.Many antibiotics, including penicillin, are derived from fungi. Why do you think fungi produce these substances? In addition, fungi often secrete substances into the foods that they are attacking that make these foods unpalatable or even poisonous to other creatures. What kind of advantage would these substances provide the fungi?