The correct pronunciation of “fungus” is “FUN-guss.” The “g” is pronounced with a hard sound, as in the word “go.” The word “fungus” is a noun that refers to a group of organisms that includes yeasts, molds, and fleshy fungi like mushrooms.
Fungi are important decomposers in the environment, breaking down dead plants and animals and returning nutrients to the soil. They are also used in the production of food, beverages, and medicines. For example, yeast is used to make bread and beer, and penicillin is a fungus-derived antibiotic.
