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  • Fungal Cell Walls: Structure, Composition & Importance
    The outer covering of fungal cells is called a cell wall.

    However, it's not just any cell wall. Fungal cell walls are unique and composed primarily of chitin, a strong, flexible, and nitrogen-containing polysaccharide. This distinguishes them from plant cell walls, which are primarily made of cellulose.

    Here's why the cell wall is important for fungi:

    * Structural support: The cell wall provides rigidity and shape to the fungal cell.

    * Protection: It acts as a barrier against environmental stresses and protects the cell from bursting due to osmotic pressure.

    * Cell-to-cell communication: The cell wall can play a role in communication between fungal cells.

    * Pathogenicity: In pathogenic fungi, the cell wall contains molecules that help them evade the host's immune system.

    So, while the term "cell wall" may be generic, it's important to remember that the fungal cell wall has its own distinct composition and functions.

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