How many of the given below groups are associated with fruiting body formation ?
Saprophytic protists, Chrysophytes, Bracket fungi, Desmids, Sac fungi

Options

A. Two
B. Three
C. One
D. Four

Answer

To solve the question of how many of the given groups are associated with fruiting body formation, we can analyze each group one by one:

1. **Saprophytic Protists**:
- These include slime molds, which can form fruiting bodies under unfavorable conditions. Therefore, this group is associated with fruiting body formation.

2. **Chrysophytes**:
- This group includes organisms like diatoms and golden algae (desmids). They do not produce fruiting bodies. Thus, this group is not associated with fruiting body formation.

3. **Bracket Fungi**:
- Bracket fungi belong to the class Basidiomycetes. They reproduce via spores that are produced in a structure called a basidium, which is part of the fruiting body. Therefore, this group is associated with fruiting body formation.

4. **Desmids**:
- Desmids are a type of green algae and do not produce fruiting bodies. Hence, this group is not associated with fruiting body formation.

5. **Sac Fungi**:
- Sac fungi belong to the class Ascomycetes. They produce a fruiting body known as an ascocarp. Therefore, this group is associated with fruiting body formation.

Now, summarizing the findings:
- **Associated with fruiting body formation**:
- Saprophytic Protists (slime molds)
- Bracket Fungi
- Sac Fungi

- **Not associated with fruiting body formation**:
- Chrysophytes
- Desmids

In total, there are **3 groups** associated with fruiting body formation.

**Final Answer**: 3

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