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mycelium
Definition
Mycelium is the thread-like structure that makes up the body of a fungus. It is made up of many individual cells that are joined together. Mycelium can grow underground, on the surface of the soil, or even in water.
Mycelium is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the environment and for transporting them to the rest of the fungus. It also helps to anchor the fungus in place and to spread it to new areas.
Mycelium is an important part of the ecosystem. It helps to break down dead plant and animal matter, and it also provides food for many other organisms.
How can the word be used?
The mycelium of the fungus spread through the soil.
Different forms of the word
Noun: The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a mass of branching, threadlike hyphae.
Adjective: Relating to mycelium.
Etymology
The word "mycelium" comes from the Greek word "μύκης" (mykēs), which means "mushroom." The Greek word "μύκης" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "mūk-," which also means "mushroom.".
The word "mycelium" was first used in English in the 17th century to describe the vegetative part of a fungus.
Question
What is a mycelium?