Members of the kingdom fungi are heterotrophs, meaning they can't make their own food. Instead, they obtain nutrients by absorbing them from their surroundings. They do this by secreting enzymes that break down organic matter, and then absorbing the resulting smaller molecules.

Here's a breakdown of what fungi eat:

* Saprotrophs: These fungi feed on dead organic matter like decaying leaves, wood, and animal waste. They play a crucial role in decomposition, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

* Parasites: These fungi live on or in other living organisms (hosts), obtaining nutrients from them. This can harm the host, causing diseases.

* Mutualists: These fungi live in a mutually beneficial relationship with other organisms. For example, mycorrhizal fungi form partnerships with plant roots, exchanging nutrients with the plant.

What they specifically eat depends on the species:

* Mold: Often feeds on decaying food like bread, fruit, and vegetables.

* Mushrooms: Many are saprotrophs and decompose wood, while others are mycorrhizal.

* Yeasts: Feed on sugars in various materials like fruits, grains, and even human skin.

* Lichens: Are a symbiotic partnership of fungi and algae. The fungi provide structure and absorb nutrients, while the algae photosynthesize and provide food.

In short, fungi eat a wide variety of things, mostly dead organic matter, but they can also parasitize or partner with other organisms for survival.