Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Assertion (A): Mode of nutrition is not used as a criterion to divide Kingdom Fungi into various classes. Reason (R): All members of Kingdom Fungi are strictly heterotrophic, which is a unifying kingdom-level character. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options give

Step-by-step solution

Assertion is correct because according to NCERT, the morphology of the mycelium, mode of spore formation and fruiting bodies form the basis for the division of the kingdom fungi into various classes. Mode of nutrition is not a criterion for this division. Reason is correct and logically explains the Assertion. Since all fungi are strictly heterotrophic (lacking chlorophyll), this is a defining characteristic of the entire kingdom rather than a distinguishing feature used to separate them into classes. Answer: Both