Over 1,000 species of Fungi threatened with extinction: IUCN

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Fungi

Why in the News?

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List now includes 1,300 fungi species, of which 1000 species are at risk of extinction due to various environmental pressures.

Important Species under Threat:

  • Fibrous Waxcap (Hygrocybe intermedia): A Vulnerable species of fungi found in Europe, facing threats from habitat loss and land-use changes.
  • 279 Species at Risk: Threatened by deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development, leading to habitat loss.
  • 91 Species Threatened by Pollution: Nitrogen and ammonia runoff from fertilizers and industrial activities.
  • 50+ Species at Risk Due to Fire Patterns: Changes in fire cycles, especially in USA, making certain fungi species vulnerable in forest ecosystems.

About Fungi:

  • Fungi belong to the kingdom Fungi, distinct from animals, plants, and bacteria. They are eukaryotic organisms and include moulds, yeasts, mushrooms, and mildews.
  • Key Properties:
    • Fungi have chitin in their cell walls and form hyphae that create a mycelium network.
    • They are heterotrophic, absorbing nutrients from organic material.
    • They reproduce sexually and asexually through spores.
  • Types of Fungi:
    • Molds: Multicellular, fuzzy fungi.
    • Yeasts: Unicellular fungi used in fermentation.
    • Mushrooms: Fruiting bodies of certain fungi, often edible.
  • Ecological Role: Fungi are crucial in decomposition and nutrient cycling. Some form beneficial relationships with plants (mycorrhizae) to aid in nutrient absorption.
  • Uses:
    • Medicines: Fungi like penicillin have revolutionized medicine.
    • Food: Edible fungi include mushrooms and truffles.
    • Beverages: Yeasts are key in bread, beer, and wine production.
[UPSC 2021] Which of the following have species that can establish symbiotic relationship with other organisms?​

1. Cnidarians​

2. Fungi ​

3. Protozoa​

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

 

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