Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other labelled as Reason (R). 
• [Assertion (A):] Deuteromycetes are known as 'Fungi Imperfecti'. 
• [Reason (R):] In 'Deuteromycetes' only the asexual phase is known.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below. 
 

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is true but (R) is false.
• D. (A) is false but (R) is true.

Hint:

To remember:
- Anamorph = Asexual/imperfect stage (Deuteromycetes).
- Teleomorph = Sexual/perfect stage.
The class Deuteromycetes is a artificial taxonomic group used to catalog fungi until their sexual stages are discovered.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Fungi are traditionally classified into phyla based on their structures and methods of sexual reproduction.
Historically, fungi that did not fit into these established phyla were grouped into a temporary category.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the Assertion and Reason statements:
- Assertion (A) is true: Fungi in the class Deuteromycetes are commonly referred to as "Fungi Imperfecti" (imperfect fungi).
This group includes many economically important plant pathogens, such as species of Alternaria, Colletotrichum, and Fusarium.
- Reason (R) is true: These fungi are called "imperfect" because they lack a known sexual reproduction stage (teleomorph).
Only their asexual reproduction stage (anamorph) or vegetative state has been observed and characterized.
- Evaluating the connection: If a sexual stage is later discovered for a deuteromycete, the fungus is reclassified into its proper taxonomic phylum (typically Ascomycota or Basidiomycota).
Because the lack of a known sexual phase is the exact reason why they are named "Fungi Imperfecti," the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A), matching Option (A).