Fungal Diseases
Laura Armstrong & Joe Wolfensohn
Teachers
Contents
Recall Questions
This topic requires prior knowledge of the structure and roles of microorganisms and how diseases can spread through different modes of transmission.
What is a pathogen?
A microorganism that causes disease
Give one example of how pathogens can be spread.
Through direct contact, droplets in the air, or in contaminated food / water
Name the four main types of pathogens.
Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protists
Topic Explainer Video
Check out this @JoeDoesBiology video that explains fungal diseases, then read the study notes. Once you’ve gone through them, don’t forget to try the practice questions!
Fungal Diseases
- One example of a fungal pathogen in humans is athletes' feet. The fungus spreads when you walk on the fungal spores in warm, damp areas, for example, the changing rooms at the swimming baths.
- Another fungal disease you need to know about is a plant fungal disease, rose black spot.
|
Name of Disease |
Athlete’s Foot |
Rose Black Spot |
|
Type of Pathogen |
Fungus |
Fungus |
|
Spread By |
Direct contact (e.g. skin-to-skin) or indirectly via surfaces (e.g. shower floors, towels). |
Wind and water (rain splash or water droplets), insects and gardeners tools. |
|
Symptoms |
Itchy, red, flaky skin between toes- cracked, peeling skin- burning or stinging sensation. |
Purple or black spots on leaves- leaves turn yellow and drop early- reduces plant growth. |
|
Cause of Symptoms |
Fungal growth and irritation of skin tissues. |
Fungus damages leaf tissue, reducing photosynthesis and decreasing glucose production. |
|
Treatment |
Antifungal creams, powders, or sprays. |
Fungicides and removing infected leaves. |
|
Prevention / Control |
Keep feet clean and dry. Wear flip-flops in communal showers. Don't share towels or shoes. |
Remove and destroy infected leaves / burn infected leaves. Spray plants with fungicide. Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding plants. |
Key Term
- Fungicide – A chemical that kills or stops the growth of fungi.
No answer provided.
Exam Tip
For rose black spot, always mention reduced photosynthesis and its impact on growth.
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Practice Question
Describe how a gardener should control an infection of rose black spot. (2 marks)
Model Answer:
- Remove and destroy infected leaves by burning them.
- Use fungicides to kill the fungus.
More Practice
Try to answer these practice questions from the TikTok videos on your own, then watch the videos to see how well you did!