In what form are the reserved or accumulated food substances stored by fungi?

Fungi store reserved or accumulated food substances primarily in the form of glycogen. Glycogen, a polysaccharide composed of glucose units, functions as a readily available energy source. It serves as a storage molecule for excess glucose produced during periods of plenty. When energy demand rises, fungi break down glycogen through glycogenolysis, releasing glucose molecules for energy production via cellular respiration. Unlike plants, fungi lack chlorophyll and cannot perform photosynthesis to synthesize glucose from carbon dioxide and water. Instead, they obtain organic compounds from their surroundings or through symbiotic relationships. Glycogen storage enables fungi to thrive in diverse environments by providing a means to sustain metabolic activities during periods of nutrient scarcity. Additionally, some fungi may store lipids as oil bodies or accumulate starch granules, but these forms are less common compared to glycogen storage, which remains essential for their survival and growth.