Biological World

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  Economic Importance of Bryophytes  Bryophytes are a group of non-vascular plants that include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. Despite their small size and lack of vascular tissue, these plants have a significant economic importance. This article will discuss the various ways in which bryophytes are used and their economic significance. Ecological Importance Bryophytes play an important role in ecosystem function. They help to stabilize soils, prevent erosion, and retain water. Their ability to absorb and retain moisture also makes them important in maintaining a balance in the water cycle. Bryophytes also serve as a habitat for a wide variety of organisms, including invertebrates, fungi, and other plants. This makes them an important part of the food web, providing a source of food and shelter for many animals. Medicinal Properties Many bryophytes have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. For example, liverworts have been used to treat liver ailments, while mos...

  Fungi in Production of Organic Acids Biochemical activities of several fungi are utilized in the commercial production of organic acids. 1. Citric acid:  It is produced by fermenting sucrose and molasses by Aspergillus niger and A. wentii . Citric acid is used in soft drinks and other  foods and medicinal preparations. It is a superior sequestering agent and is used in the manufacture of ink, dyeing, electroplating and leather tanning. 2. Itaconic acid:  It is produced by fermentation of sugars by Aspergillus itaconicum and A. terreus .  It is widely used in the manufacture of alkyl resins, synthetic fibres and plasticizers. 3. Gluconic acid:  It is produced by fermenting sugars by Aspergillus niger and Penicillium purpurogenum . It is used in pharmaceutical, food,  textile, leather and photographic industries. 4. Kojic acid : It is produced by fermentation of sugars by Aspergillus oryzae. It possesses insecticidal  a nd antibiotic properties a...