What does mycelium refer to?

Mycelium refers to the mass of filaments that form the vegetative structure of a fungus. This network of thread-like structures, known as hyphae, plays a crucial role in the growth and development of fungi. Mycelium is responsible for nutrient absorption and decomposition, allowing fungi to break down organic matter in the environment.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of mycelium not only in the life cycle of fungi but also its ecological role in nutrient cycling and soil health. In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe mycelium: the reproductive structures of plants, digestive enzymes in fungi, and lifecycle stages of plants pertain to different biological concepts unrelated to the filamentous structure of fungi.