What makes up the cell walls of fungi?

The cell walls of fungi are primarily composed of chitin, which is a long-chain polymer of N-acetylglucosamine, a derivative of glucose. This structure provides strength and rigidity, helping fungi maintain their shape. Chitin is distinct from cellulose, which is found in the cell walls of plants, and peptidoglycan, which is characteristic of bacterial cell walls. Lignin, on the other hand, is a complex organic polymer found in the cell walls of many plants and contributes to their rigidity and resistance to decomposition. Therefore, chitin is the correct component that specifically defines the cell walls of fungi, highlighting their unique position in the biological kingdom.