FANTASTIC FUN Fungi are everywhere: on trees and plants, in the soil, in food, drink, medicine … even on our bodies! They do not contain chlorophyll, so are neither plant nor animal but are classed as a separate kingdom. With no chlorophyll they cannot make their own food, so take their nutrition from their surroundings. This quality makes them instrumental in nature’s decomposition and recycling processes, and has resulted in the evolution of a remarkable and mutually beneficial relationship with trees and other plants. Fungi exist as thread-like structures called ‘hyphae’ which are too small to be 22
seen. These hyphae grow and mesh together, forming a thread or mat called ‘mycelium’ that is visible to the naked eye. Mycelia often grow underground but can also thrive in other places such as rotting tree trunks. Mycelia are generally white and look like the soft strands of a cotton wall ball. You can sometimes see mycelia if you look closely at healthy soil or well-rotted compost. Mycelia are of vital importance to soil. As they spread, enzymes are released from the hyphae which break down adjacent organic material and enable the fungus to absorb the resulting nutrients. This is
a major contribution to the recycling process. By breaking down organic matter, mycelium helps create new and fertile soil. Mycelia in the soil also help to remove toxins, help plants to absorb nutrients and provide food for insects and invertebrates. Research has shown that without fungi, plants grow far less well – its presence is really crucial to sustaining life! Some fungi can be harmful to people through poisoning or infections and some can damage plants, but overall they have a crucial and beneficial effect on the environment.
