Fungal diversity, ecology and functions in soil ecosystems

Fungi are a key component of the microbial community in soils, forming species-rich assemblages in soils of natural ecosystems and managed soils. Their unique physiology, absorptive nutritional mode and growth form as spore-producing filamentous eukaryotes enables them to make specific contributions to a wide range of ecological roles as potent decomposers, versatile mutualists and also destructive pathogens. Fungi have important roles in biogeochemical cycles, for example, in nutrient mineralization, plant nutrient uptake and carbon storage. Positioned at the basis of the soil food web, they are one of the pillars of the flow of carbon and energy through the soil food web. As bottom-up controlled organisms in the soil, largely controlled by their resources, they react sensitively to a range of anthropogenic factors, including climate change and other factors of global environmental change, such as chemical pollution. By influencing the food system and via their role as pathogens and in antifungal resistance, fungi are key players in One Health and planetary health.