Fungi produce many compounds that humans use medicinally. Which of the following statements best describes the evolution of these compounds in fungi?
A) Humans used artificial selection to develop fungi that produced specific compounds.
B) The presence of the compounds in the fungi were accidentally produced and have no function.
C) The compounds probably provide a benefit to the fungi.
D) The compounds are produced as a result of sexual reproduction and recombination.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The compounds produced by fungi likely evolved because they offer some advantage to the fungi, such as protection against predators, parasites, or competition from other microorganisms. This evolutionary perspective suggests that these compounds serve a functional role in the survival and fitness of fungi.

Fungi Produce Many Compounds That Humans Use Medicinally