Fungi Threatened With Extinction

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reported on March 27, 2025, that over 1,000 species of fungi are now threatened with extinction. This alarming statistic reflects the growing impact of human activities on biodiversity. The IUCN Red List has recently expanded to include 169,420 species, of which 47,187 face extinction risks. Among these, 1,300 fungi species have been assessed, with at least 411 identified as at risk.

Factors Contributing to Fungal Decline

Deforestation is driver of fungal extinction. Timber production, illegal logging, and agricultural clearing have devastated fungal habitats. Urban expansion also plays important role. Rapid agricultural growth and urban development have led to habitat loss for many fungi species. In total, 279 species are now at risk due to these factors.

Pollution and Its Impact

Chemical run-off from agricultural practices poses a severe threat to fungi. Nitrogen and ammonia from fertilisers and engine emissions are detrimental to at least 91 species. Such pollution disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems where fungi thrive.

Regional Vulnerabilities

Europe is particularly affected, with well-known species like the Vulnerable fibrous waxcap (Hygrocybe intermedia) facing threats. Changes in fire patterns in the USA have also contributed to the decline of over 50 fungi species, altering forest ecosystems drastically.

The Importance of Fungi

Fungi are essential to ecosystem health. They form a distinct kingdom, second only to animals, with an estimated 2.5 million species. Fungi play important role in nutrient absorption for plants and are vital for decomposition processes. Many fungi are edible and are used in food production, fermentation, and medicine. They also support bioremediation efforts, helping to clean contaminated environments.

Call to Action

The IUCN marks the need to safeguard the fungal kingdom. Fungi are often overlooked despite their critical role in sustaining life on Earth. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General, emphasised the importance of recognising fungi as the foundation of healthy ecosystems. Protecting these species is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss the impact of urbanisation on biodiversity in ecosystems.
2. Examine the role of fungi in nutrient cycling and ecosystem health.
3. What are the primary causes of deforestation? Point out their effects on local biodiversity.
4. Analyse the relationship between agricultural practices and the extinction of species.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the impact of urbanisation on biodiversity in ecosystems.

1. Urbanisation leads to habitat loss, fragmenting ecosystems and reducing available space for flora and fauna.
2. Increased pollution from urban areas disrupts local ecosystems, affecting air and water quality.
3. Urban sprawl often replaces natural landscapes with impervious surfaces, hindering water absorption and altering local hydrology.
4. Invasive species may thrive in urban environments, outcompeting native species and further reducing biodiversity.
5. Urbanisation can lead to increased human-wildlife conflicts, resulting in further decline of native species.

2. Examine the role of fungi in nutrient cycling and ecosystem health.

1. Fungi decompose organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which is essential for plant growth.
2. They form symbiotic relationships with plants (mycorrhizae), aiding in nutrient absorption, particularly phosphorus.
3. Fungi contribute to soil structure and health, enhancing its ability to retain water and nutrients.
4. They play important role in bioremediation, breaking down pollutants and restoring contaminated environments.
5. Fungi are integral to food webs, serving as a food source for various organisms, thus supporting ecosystem diversity.

3. What are the primary causes of deforestation? Point out their effects on local biodiversity.

1. Timber production and illegal logging are major drivers, leading to habitat destruction for countless species.
2. Agricultural expansion, including monoculture farming, reduces habitat diversity and threatens local flora and fauna.
3. Urban development encroaches on forested areas, further fragmenting ecosystems and isolating wildlife populations.
4. Deforestation disrupts water cycles, leading to soil erosion and affecting the health of surrounding ecosystems.
5. Loss of tree cover impacts climate regulation, contributing to global warming and altering species distributions.

4. Analyse the relationship between agricultural practices and the extinction of species.

1. Intensive farming practices often lead to habitat destruction, reducing the natural environments available for species.
2. Pesticides and fertilizers contribute to pollution, harming non-target species and disrupting ecosystem balance.
3. Monoculture practices reduce genetic diversity, making ecosystems more vulnerable to pests and diseases.
4. Run-off from agricultural land can lead to eutrophication, affecting aquatic ecosystems and their biodiversity.
5. Overgrazing and land conversion for agriculture can lead to soil degradation, further threatening local species.