These relationships are known as mycorrhizae.
In a mycorrhizal relationship, fungal networks can extend through the soil and interact with plant roots. The plant provides the fungus with carbon compounds, while the fungus can help increase access to certain nutrients and water.
These relationships are an important part of many
natural ecosystems.
So the presence of fungi isn’t automatically
something that should be viewed as harmful.
- Your Lawn May Be Part of a Much Bigger Ecosystem
A perfectly green lawn can look simple from above.
Underneath, however, an entirely different world is operating.
Grass roots are interacting with soil organisms. Organic matter is decomposing. Fungal networks are spreading. Insects and worms are moving through the soil.
Mushrooms are simply one of the easiest parts of that hidden ecosystem for humans to see.
