The Mycorrhizal Fungi's Symbiotic Relationship

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Fungi are incredibly important in these ecosystems. 90% of all plant species on Earth form an association with mycorrhizal fungi. Scientists have known about the symbiotic relationship for decades. But recently, the story has gotten weirder. Some call it the wood wide web. The idea is that trees communicate with each other.

Studies suggesting trees communicate through an elaborate underground fungal network have captured imaginations. It’s a beautiful idea, but the fantasy may have gotten ahead of the science.

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