Phylum Basidiomycota

The members of this phylum are also called club fungi or basidiomycetes. They produce basidiospores for reproduction. The spores are produced in a specialized club-like structure, called basidium. The phylum includes several species like mushrooms, rust, and smut fungi.

Fungi play an important role in the ecosystem as decomposers. Though some of them are pathogens, many of them are widely used for the preparation and preservation of food like wine, beer, bread, cheese, and soy products. Fungi like mushrooms and truffles are an important food source. Several species of fungi are also used to produce antibiotics like penicillin and cephalosporin, and some important vitamins.