How do fungi obtain their nutritional needs?

Fungi obtain their nutritional needs primarily through absorption rather than producing their own food. They break down organic matter in their environment by secreting enzymes that decompose complex substances into simpler compounds, which they can then absorb. This process allows fungi to thrive on a variety of organic materials, including those high in cellulose, which is found in plant cell walls.

While some fungi can form symbiotic relationships, such as mycorrhizae with plant roots, the main characteristic of fungi is their heterotrophic nature. They do not create their own food through processes like photosynthesis, which is exclusive to plants and certain types of bacteria. Thus, relying on external sources high in cellulose and other organic substances is essential for their survival and growth.

The other options do not accurately represent how fungi acquire their nutrition. Fungi do not photosynthesize; they lack chlorophyll and the necessary structures for this process. While some fungi might feed on other fungi, this is not a primary means of obtaining their nutritional needs compared to their overall ability to decompose and absorb a wide range of organic materials.