While most scientists focus on large endangered animals affected by extreme weather and habitat loss, a new study has revealed a crisis within the fungal kingdom, which is also under threat due to climate change. Researchers have identified 411 fungal species at risk of extinction, according to the Natural History Museum.
2.5 Million Fungal Species Exist Worldwide
According to the report, an estimated 2.5 million fungal species exist globally. However, scientists have studied only about 155,000 of them, and just 1,300 species have been included on the IUCN Red List.
Dr. Grethel Aguilar, Director General of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), emphasized that scientific research is crucial not only for understanding these organisms but also for protecting them. “Although fungi form the foundation of healthy ecosystems, they remain largely overlooked,” she said. “Thanks to the dedication of experts and community scientists, we've taken a major step forward—over 1,000 known fungal species have now been added to the Red List. Now it's time to turn this knowledge into action to safeguard the extraordinary fungal kingdom.”
Why Are Fungi Important?
Fungi are the second-largest kingdom of life after animals, largely due to their extraordinary ability to adapt to all forms of life—from controlling the minds of ants to feeding on radiation that would otherwise destroy many organisms.
One of their most vital roles is nutrient cycling. Mycorrhizal fungi form intricate networks around plant roots, supplying them with essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus in exchange for sugars produced by the plants.
The Role of Fungi on Earth
When living organisms die, fungi are among the planet’s most crucial decomposers. Humans also rely on fungi for various purposes: as food—used in baking, brewing, or consumed directly—as well as in medicine production and for cleaning up polluted sites.
Fungal populations are particularly affected by deforestation. Currently, 198 tree species are threatened by logging. Notably, 30% of ancient pine forests in Scandinavia and Russia have been lost since 1975.
As these old-growth forests are replaced by tree plantations, slow-growing fungi don’t have enough time to fully reestablish themselves before the trees are harvested again. As a result, species like the Giant Knight have been classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
