Allen and Rose are discussing saprotrophs. Allen says saprotrophic fungi decompose the remains of animals and plants. Rose says saprotrophic fungi remove excess lignin from paper pulp. Who is correct?

Allen and Rose are both correct. Saprotrophic fungi decompose dead or decaying organic matter and other diverse carbon sources. They are natural recyclers - able to break down complex organic compounds, including carbohydrates, fats and proteins. The white rot fungi can degrade lignin and cellulose.