Why Mushrooms Aren't Plants or Animals

SciShow Kids

This educational video from SciShow Kids explores the biological classification of mushrooms, explaining why they are neither plants nor animals but belong to their own kingdom called Fungi. Hosted by Jessi and her robot mouse friend Squeaks, the video uses a pizza lunch scenario to introduce the topic, highlighting the unique characteristics of fungi such as their inability to make food from sunlight like plants and their immobility compared to animals. The video dives into the fascinating diversity of fungi, showcasing examples like Black Witches' Butter, Brain Mushrooms, and bioluminescent species. It breaks down complex biological concepts like nutrition and digestion, explaining how fungi "eat" by releasing digestive enzymes externally and absorbing nutrients from organic matter, often dead plants. This distinction is contrasted with plant photosynthesis and internal animal digestion. Teachers can use this video to introduce a unit on the kingdoms of life, decomposers, or biological diversity. It provides clear, accessible analogies for how different organisms obtain energy and emphasizes safety regarding wild mushrooms. The engaging visuals and friendly hosts make abstract biological differences concrete and understandable for young learners.