Describe the similarities and differences between plants and fungi. Consider how they grow, multiply, etc.

Plants and fungi are two of the five kingdoms of living organisms on earth (the other three are animalia, protista, and monera). They share many characteristics, but are considered entirely different organisms. Below is a list of the ways they are similar and different.

Ways Plants and Fungi are Similar

• Both are fixed organisms without the ability to move


• Both have structures that attach them to the ground or another location (roots in plants, and micro-filaments in fungi)


• Both are eukaryotic organisms

Ways Plants and Fungi are Different

• Plants and fungi have different DNA sequences


• Plants and fungi have different cell structures


• Plants use photosynthesis (solar power) to create energy; Fungi require external sources of nutrients


• Plant cell walls are made of cellulose; fungi cell walls are made of chitin 


• Plants are producers; fungi are decomposers

There are more differences than similarities when it comes to fungi and plants. Though in some cases, their physical appearance may be similar, their physiology and function are not often comparable.