ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF FUNGI
ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF FUNGI Fungi play crucial ecological roles that contribute to the stability and productivity of ecosystems. Fungi are the most hyper diverse lineage of eukaryotes and have been horizontally invading lithogenic substrates since their inception. Their unique abilities to decompose, form symbiotic relationships, enhance soil health, and contribute to ecological balance make them indispensable for healthy ecosystems. Their main ecological importance includes: 1. Decomposition and Nutrient Cycling: Fungi play a major role in the decomposition of organic matter and the cycling of nutrients in ecosystems. Organic materials consist of a variety of complex compounds such as cellulose and lignin. Fungi possess enzymes that break these substrates down, depolymerizing them, so that they can be taken up as nutrients. In ecosystems, most of the organic material composed of complex carbohydrates is found in the form of dead plants and dead an...