Problem 25

Background and context

Fungi are essential players in energy exchange within and between ecosystems. Fungi are part of a wide population of "decomposers" that break down dead plants and animals in terrestrial, marine, and freshwater settings. They are involved in many biogeochemical cycles, such as the nitrogen and sulphur cycles, and are capable of solubilizing minerals, dissolving and precipitating metal ions, degrading silicates, and dissolving rock phosphates in oxygen-deficient conditions.