Fungi
Table of Contents
Introduction
Mystical and often hidden, fungi have captured the human imagination for millennia. Beyond their cultural significances as food, medicine, and sometimes, hallucinogens, fungi play a pivotal role in the health and functionality of ecosystems worldwide. Fungi are not plants, animals, or bacteria, but form their own unique kingdom, one that's intricately interwoven with life on Earth.
So, why are fungi fundamental, and how do they influence the ecosystems they inhabit?
About This Page
On this page, we'll journey into the captivating realm of fungi, from their role in decomposition and nutrient cycling to their fascinating symbiotic relationships and the conservation challenges they face. Discover the profound and often hidden impacts of these incredible organisms on our planet's health and equilibrium.
Benefits of Fungi
Carbon Storage
According to a new study "an estimated 13.12 gigatons of CO2 is transferred from plants to the fungi annually, transforming the soil beneath our feet to a massive carbon pool and the most effective carbon capture storage unit in the world."
Environmental Health
Symbiotic Relationships
Beyond decomposition, fungi form mycorrhizal associations with approximately 90% of plant species. These symbiotic relationships, where fungi provide water and nutrients to plants in exchange for sugars, underpin the health of forests and grasslands. They also create vast underground networks, often referred to as the "Wood Wide Web," connecting multiple plants and facilitating communication and nutrient transfer.
Soil Stability, Carbon Storage & Habitat Enrichment
Fungi also play roles in soil stabilization, carbon storage, and as food and habitat for various species. Their vast diversity, with millions of species—many yet to be discovered—ensures their role in almost every ecological niche.
Decomposition & Nutrient Cycling
At the heart of their ecological contribution is decomposition. Fungi are among Earth's most efficient recyclers. They break down organic matter, transforming dead plants, animals, and other organisms into rich, fertile soil. Without fungi, our world would be buried under layers of undecomposed debris. By returning essential nutrients to the soil, they support the growth of plants, thereby anchoring terrestrial food chains.
Types of Fungi
Mycorrhizal Fungi
"Mycorrhizas are beneficial fungi growing in association with plant roots, and exist by taking sugars from plants 'in exchange' for moisture and nutrients gathered from the soil by the fungal strands. The mycorrhizas greatly increase the absorptive area of a plant, acting as extensions to the root system." - Royal Horticultural Society: Mycorrhizal Fungi
Parasitic Fungi
"Parasitic and pathogenic fungi form symbiotic relationships with other living organisms, similarly to mycorrhizal fungi; however, they benefit to the detriment (and sometimes death) of their host. Many species affect trees and other plants. Others attack mushrooms, sometimes rendering the host species unrecognizable." - National Park Service: Parasitic and Pathogenic Fungi
Saprophytic Fungi
"Saprophytic fungi are the largest group of (macro) fungi, responsible for breaking down and recycling dead plant and animal material. These are the fruit-bodies you see on dead trees, leaf litter, animal bones, even faeces.
Saprophytic fungi release enzymes to break down and digest the lignin, cellulose or chitin in this material into simple soluble compounds that can be absorbed by them, and by plants, as nutrients. In so doing, they play a vital role in reducing the accumulation of dead organic material and in recycling essential nutrients, particularly carbon and nitrogen.
Without these digestive activities, forests would disappear under a mountain of logs and leaves!" - Fungimap: Saprophytic Fungi
Resources
Studies
Fungi Stores a Third of Carbon from Fossil Fuel Emissions and Could be Essential to Reaching Net Zero, New Study Reveals "Researchers are now calling for fungi to be considered more heavily in conservation and biodiversity policies, and are investigating whether we can increase how much carbon the soil underneath us can hold"
Suggested Reading
Grants & Funding
Europe
UK
National award schemes There are a number of key organisations offering grants and advice to community based projects e.g.
Big Lottery Fund "Groups can apply to us for funding under £20,000, or over £20,001, depending on what they want to do."
Heritage Fund "We fund projects of all sizes that connect people and communities to the UK’s heritage."
Grow Wild UK "Bringing people together to value and enjoy wildflowers and fungi"