Identify common fungal parasites and pathogens

Parasitism describes a symbiotic relationship in which one member of the association benefits at the expense of the other. Both parasites and pathogens harm the host; however, pathogens cause disease, damage to host tissues or physiology, whereas parasites usually do not, but can cause serious damage and death by competition for nutrients or other resources. Commensalism occurs when one member benefits without affecting the other.

What You’ll Learn to Do

• Describe fungal parasites and pathogens of plants
• Describe the different types of fungal infections in humans
• Explain why antifungal therapy is becoming less successful in public health

Learning Activities

The learning activities for this section include the following:

• Infections in Plants
• Infections in Humans
• Antifungal Therapy
• Self Check: Fungal Parasites and Pathogens