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The Origin and Early Evolution of Fungi: Challenges, Inferences, and Principles
1Department of Biological Sciences and Evolutionary Studies Initiative, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA;
Annual Review of Cell and Developmental Biology
|June 9, 2026
Summary
Fungal evolution remains mysterious, despite fungi
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Paleontology
Background:
- Fungi are essential to life, but their origins and early evolution are poorly understood.
- The characteristics of the fungi's last common ancestor are unknown.
- Fungal origins predate animals and land plants, yet are the least studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current knowledge on early fungal evolution.
- To identify knowledge gaps and misconceptions in fungal origins.
- To propose evolutionary principles exemplified by fungi.
Main Methods:
- Review of fungal and eukaryotic microbial diversity.
- Analysis of geological data and fossil records.
- Integration of evolutionary genomics.
Main Results:
- Early fungal evolution is inferred from diverse data sources.
- Challenges and gaps in understanding fungal origins are highlighted.
- Misconceptions regarding fungal evolution are addressed.
Conclusions:
- Reconstructing early fungal evolution is crucial for understanding ancient ecosystems.
- Understanding fungal origins aids in deciphering the colonization of land.
- Early fungal evolution provides insights into broader evolutionary principles.
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