Launch of Underground Atlas Highlights Importance of Mycorrhizal Fungi

Launch of the Underground Atlas by the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) underscores the essential role of mycorrhizal fungi in nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 3, focusing on environmental conservation and biodiversity. Last Updated: 2025-07-30

Key Facts About Mycorrhizal Fungi

• Over 90% of mycorrhizal fungi hotspots are located outside protected areas.
• Mycorrhizal fungi are vital for nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
• They play a significant role in carbon sequestration by utilizing CO2 from plant roots.
• These fungi store approximately 13 billion tonnes of CO2 annually, which is one-third of global fossil fuel emissions.
• They form symbiotic relationships with over 80% of plant species.
• Mycorrhizal fungi enhance nutrient absorption, particularly phosphorus.
• Types of mycorrhizal fungi include Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and Ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungi.
• Hotspots for AM fungi include the Brazilian Cerrado, Southeast Asia, and West Africa.
• EcM fungi are prevalent in forest trees like oak and pine, with hotspots in Canada, Siberia, and Central Europe.
• The FAO's GLOBSOB initiative aims to monitor and protect soil biodiversity.

Global Significance of Mycorrhizal Fungi

Mycorrhizal fungi are pivotal in achieving global environmental goals, including carbon reduction and biodiversity conservation. Their ability to store substantial amounts of CO2 aligns with India's commitment to reducing carbon footprints and enhancing soil health. Comparatively, these fungi's carbon storage capabilities are significant when juxtaposed with global fossil fuel emissions, highlighting their ecological importance.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• GLOBSOB: An FAO initiative to monitor and protect soil biodiversity, integrating soil life into environmental policy.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Environmental conservation, biodiversity, and climate change.
• Prelims: Potential questions on the role of mycorrhizal fungi in ecosystems and their carbon sequestration capabilities.
• Mains: Analytical themes on biodiversity conservation strategies and the role of soil organisms in climate change mitigation.
• Essay Paper: Topics on sustainable development and environmental conservation.

FAQ Section

• What is mycorrhizal fungi? Mycorrhizal fungi are symbiotic organisms that form relationships with plant roots, aiding in nutrient absorption and carbon sequestration.
• Why is mycorrhizal fungi important? These fungi are crucial for nutrient cycling and carbon storage, storing approximately 13 billion tonnes of CO2 annually, which is vital for mitigating climate change.
• What are the key features of mycorrhizal fungi? They enhance nutrient absorption, particularly phosphorus, and form symbiotic relationships with over 80% of plants, with significant hotspots outside protected areas.