What are mycorrhizal fungi?

Ectomycorrhizae.

Often overlooked and underappreciated, fungi fulfill diverse ecological roles in nature. They act as decomposers, breaking down dead plant and animal material and returning vital nutrients to ecosystems. They form mutualistic partnerships, benefiting a wide range of organisms from plants to animals. Some fungi even exhibit parasitic behavior, attacking living organisms to steal nutrients and […]

What are fungi?

A typical mushroom is comprised of a cap, gills, and stem, which are important characteristics for identification; however, these features vary greatly depending on the species. Pictured: Russula betularum.

Have you ever been walking through the woods and happened to stumble upon a mushroom or a massive horde of mushrooms? Have you ever wondered whether those mushrooms were edible or poisonous? Well, I’m here to introduce you to mushrooms, mycology, and the fascinating world of fungi! Fungi are a unique group of organisms that […]