Which class of fungi is typically non-pigmented (hyaline) under the microscope?

• A. Hyaline Fungi (non-pigmented)
• B. Dematiaceous Fungi (pigmented)
• C. Zygomycetes
• D. Yeasts

Answer: (A)

Hyaline fungi are defined by their colorless, clear hyphae under light microscopy. This lack of pigment comes from the absence of melanin in their cell walls, so they appear pale or transparent. That contrasts with dematiaceous fungi, which have dark, brown-to-black hyphae due to melanin. Since hyaline literally describes this non-pigmented appearance, it’s the best answer for a class of fungi typically non-pigmented under the microscope. Zygomycetes and yeasts are different groups and aren’t described by this hyaline vs. pigmented distinction in the same way.