What is the difference between a bacterium and a fungus?
The other day, our microbiology professor asked us to compare bacteria and fungi, and it got me thinking about how often we confuse the two. I remembered reading in Brock’s textbook how different their cell structures, reproduction, and even roles in nature are. This breakdown really helped me understand their unique features clearly—especially why antibiotics don’t work on fungi.
Answer ( 1 )
Cellular Structure
Cell Wall Composition
Genetic Material
Reproduction
Metabolism and Nutrition
Fungi secrete digestive enzymes externally and absorb nutrients (absorptive nutrition).
Motility
Ecological Roles
Medical Significance
Size and Complexity
Examples
In summary: Bacteria and fungi differ in their cellular structures, reproduction, metabolism, ecological functions, and medical impacts. Understanding these differences is vital across medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.
Source: Madigan, M.T., et al. Brock Biology of Microorganisms; Deacon, J. Fungal Biology.