Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

Which organisms are known to be capable of destroying fungi?

1. Bacteria

2. Viruses

3. Fungi

4. Parasites

The correct answer is: Bacteria

Bacteria are known to be capable of destroying fungi through a process called antagonism. Certain types of bacteria produce substances, such as antibiotics, that inhibit the growth of fungi. This biological interaction can be beneficial in various ecosystems, as it helps maintain balance by controlling fungal populations that could otherwise become pathogenic or overgrow. The ability of bacteria to outcompete or directly inhibit fungi is significant in agriculture and medicine, where the use of beneficial bacteria can help prevent fungal infections in plants or humans. This characteristic is leveraged in biocontrol methods to manage fungal diseases and minimize the reliance on chemical fungicides. While viruses, fungi, and parasites have their own roles in the ecosystem, they do not specifically target fungi in the same way bacteria do. Viruses primarily infect host cells, including those of bacteria and other organisms, without directly destroying fungi. Other fungi may compete with one another but do not serve the function of actively destroying other fungi. Parasites typically rely on a host for survival and may not engage directly with fungal organisms. Therefore, the relationship between bacteria and fungi is unique in its potential for destruction and control, making bacteria the correct choice.