Mycocycle

Are mushrooms plants or animals?

Although they are closer to animals than plants, mushrooms are in a kingdom of their own and are classifed as Fungi.

Are mushrooms and fungi the same thing?

All mushrooms are fungi, but not all fungi are mushrooms. Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of some but not all fungi.

What is mycelium?

Mycelium is the root-like structure of fungi and consists of a mass of branching thread-like hyphae that collect food, water, and nutrients to nourish the fungus.

Why are fungi considered nature’s recyclers?

Fungi are decomposers and are responsible for turning dead plants and animals back into usable nutrients for new plants and animals.

Why do we often see mushrooms growing at the base of trees and other plants?

Because the fine threads that make fungal mycelium can spread over long distances, fungi can capture water and nutrients from far away and bring them back for distribution, thus extending the plants root system. In return, the fungi receive sugars from the plant.