Read the following statements regarding a specific class of fungi: (i) Mycelium is branched and septate. (ii) Asexual spores are generally not found. (iii) Plasmogamy is brought about by fusion of two vegetative or somatic cells of different strains or genotypes. Identify the correct example of the fungal group described above along with its common name.

Step-by-step solution

The given statements describe the characteristics of the class Basidiomycetes. In members of Basidiomycetes, the mycelium is branched and septate, asexual spores are generally not found, and sex organs are absent with plasmogamy occurring via the fusion of two vegetative or somatic cells. Ustilago is a member of Basidiomycetes and is commonly known as smut fungus. Puccinia is also a Basidiomycete but is known as rust fungus, making its pairing incorrect. Aspergillus belongs to Ascomycetes (sac fungi), and Rhizopus