If fungi of the genus Cordyceps are ingested by insects, fruiting bodies from the fungi will form and erupt through the bodies of the insects and then kill the insect hosts. Since Cordyceps are using the insects as a host for growth and dispersal, these fungi are an example of

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cordyceps fungi are using the insects as a host for their own growth and reproduction, which means they are obtaining nutrients from the insects and harming them in the process. This is a clear example of parasitism, meaning choice B is the correct answer. Symbiosis refers to a mutually beneficial relationship between two or more organisms, lichens are a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria, and mycorrhizae are a mutualistic relationship between fungi and plant roots. None of these accurately describe the relationship between Cordyceps and insects.

If Fungi of the Genus Cordyceps Are Ingested by Insects