Which division of microbiology deals with the study of fungi?

Mycology is the branch of microbiology that specifically focuses on the study of fungi. This includes various types of fungi, such as molds, yeasts, and mushrooms, as well as their structure, reproduction, genetics, and biochemical properties. Mycology plays a crucial role in understanding the ecological roles of fungi, their uses in industry, and their impacts on human health, including both beneficial and pathogenic fungi.

Fungi are distinct from other microbial organisms like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Understanding the unique properties and behaviors of fungi helps in various applications, such as antibiotic production (some bacteria produce antibiotics from fungal substances), fermentation processes, and even in certain environmental contexts where fungi contribute to decomposition and nutrient cycling.

The other fields mentioned—virology, bacteriology, and protozoology—focus on viruses, bacteria, and protozoa, respectively, and do not encompass the study of fungi, clearly emphasizing the unique focus that mycology has within the overall field of microbiology.