Logic check on metabolism and taxonomy: Which statement about sac fungi (Ascomycota) and chemolithotrophic autotrophs is correct?

Introduction / Context:
Ascomycota (sac fungi) are heterotrophic eukaryotes, whereas chemolithotrophic autotrophs are organisms (mostly prokaryotes) that fix CO2 using energy from inorganic compounds. This question probes the mismatch between nutritional mode and taxonomic grouping.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Sac fungi obtain carbon and energy from organic matter via absorption.
• Chemolithoautotrophy is primarily a bacterial/archaeal strategy.
• No broad identity exists between these two categories.

Concept / Approach:
All options (a–c) incorrectly equate or subset sac fungi with chemolithoautotrophic organisms. The accurate statement would assert that sac fungi are heterotrophs; therefore, among the provided options, “none of the above” is correct.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Evaluate (a–c): all imply equivalence or inclusion with chemolithoautotrophs—false. Recognize the correct biology: sac fungi are heterotrophs. Since the correct formulation is absent, select “none of the above.” Note supporting fact: chemolithoautotrophy is rare/unknown among fungi.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard microbiology texts list nitrifiers, sulfur oxidizers, and iron oxidizers as chemolithoautotrophs—domains Bacteria/Archaea, not Ascomycota.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• (a–c): Propose set relationships that contradict fundamental metabolism of fungi.
• Distractor statement (e): Although true, it is not among the answer choices to select; the correct multiple-choice option is “none of the above.”

Common Pitfalls:
Mixing ecological nutrition terms with taxonomic ranks and assuming overlap.

Final Answer:
none of the above.