Fungus is any member of a diverse group of organisms that obtain food by absorbing nutrients from an external source. Fungi was presented to the world 550 million years ago or even earlier. Fungus can range from tiny, single-celled organisms invisible to the naked eye to some of the largest living multicellular organisms. Fungi are among the foremost decomposers of organic matter, breaking down plant and animal remains and wastes into their chemical components. That is one of the main reasons why fungi play a critical role in the recycling of minerals and carbon. Some commom forms of fungi include mushrooms, puffballs, truffles, yeasts, most mildews, plant rusts, and smuts. To find out more visit http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761551534/Fungus.html.
