This document discusses the characteristics of fungi and their roles in ecology. It begins by outlining the learning objectives which are to describe fungal characteristics, explain why they are not classified as multicellular heterotrophs, their role as decomposers, and their symbiotic relationships. It then provides information about fungal anatomy and taxonomy before discussing their ecological roles as decomposers, predators, pathogens, symbionts, and their human benefits. Specific examples provided are chytrid fungi, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, and lichens which are a symbiotic relationship between fungal hyphae and algal cells.