The Biodiversity and Importance of Fungi in Ecosystems

The Q Fungarium at Kew Gardens houses a vast collection of fungi, vital for understanding fungal biodiversity worldwide. Fungi, often overlooked in environmental causes, play a crucial role in ecosystems, with mycologist Laura Martinez-Sews studying their impact on carbon sequestration in soil. These organisms form symbiotic networks with plant roots, aiding in nutrient and water transfer in exchange for carbon, impacting carbon storage in forests. Martinez-Sews highlights the significance of preserving mycorrhizal networks for successful tree planting schemes and the potential implications of disturbed fungal communities on soil carbon stocks.