Question:

Identify the odd one out.

Updated On: Nov 14, 2025
  • Ustilago
  • Alternaria
  • Colletotrichum
  • Trichoderma
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

To identify the odd one out, we need to examine the characteristics of each option provided.

  1. Ustilago: This is a genus of fungi known as smut fungi. They are known for causing plant diseases, particularly in cereals like corn and wheat. They are basidiomycetes, meaning they belong to the Basidiomycota division of the fungi kingdom.
  2. Alternaria: This is a genus of ascomycete fungi, known for being major plant pathogens and are recognized for their pathogenicity in plants, causing black spots. They belong to the Ascomycota division.
  3. Colletotrichum: Another genus of ascomycete fungi, these are pathogenic species causing diseases in various plants and also belong to the Ascomycota division.
  4. Trichoderma: This is a genus of fungi that belongs to the Ascomycota division. It is often used in biocontrol due to its antifungal properties, helping to protect plants from pathogenic fungi.

The key characteristic that distinguishes Ustilago from the others is that it belongs to the Basidiomycota division, whereas Alternaria, Colletotrichum, and Trichoderma all belong to the Ascomycota division. This difference makes Ustilago the odd one out.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

Ustilago

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Concepts Used:

Kingdom Fungi - Edible Fungus

Fungi (singular: fungus or funguses) are eukaryotic organisms classified under the kingdom Fungi. These organisms can be single-celled or multicellular. They include organisms, particularly yeasts, mushrooms, and molds. The eukaryotic microorganisms possess a cell wall made of chitin and polysaccharides. With that, they can be found anywhere and are classified as heterotrophs

The nucleus they keep is surrounded by a nucleus membrane and is dense, clear, and also contains chromatin threads. The existence of fungi can be seen as black spots found on bread, mushrooms, and yeast cells. These microorganisms are also responsible for fungal and skin diseases. 

  • Based on the mode of nutrition, fungi can be classified as Saprophytic, Parasitic, and Symbiotic. 
  • Based on spore formation, fungi can be classified as Zygomycetes, Ascomycetes, Basidiomycetes, and Deuteromycetes.

Read More: Biological Classification

Following are the important features of fungi:

  • Fungi are multicellular organisms that have a cell wall, organelles, and a nucleus but no chloroplasts.
  • They lack locomotion mechanisms. Fungi can range in size from microscopic to massive ( such as mushrooms).
  • The process of obtaining nutrients is known as absorption.
  • Fungi, for the most part, get their nutrients from decaying matter.