At a UN summit focusing on conservation efforts for animals and plants, a team of scientists is advocating for the protection of fungi, an often overlooked kingdom of species. Fungi on Earth outweigh all animals combined and comprise an estimated 5 million species, ranging from edible mushrooms to microscopic organisms crucial for ecosystems. Chilean mycologist Giuliana Furci emphasizes the vital role of fungi in sustaining the world.
Despite their significance, fungi have historically been excluded from conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding plants and animals. This gap prompted Furci to establish the Fungi Foundation in 2012, the first non-profit organization dedicated to preserving global fungi. Since then, similar organizations like Mycosphaera in Canada have emerged, collectively forming the Global Fungal Conservation Network. Recently, this coalition unveiled the Global Strategy for Fungal Conservation at the COP17 UN biodiversity conference in Yerevan, Armenia.
The ongoing UN summit evaluates progress on the 2022 Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to protect 30% of the world’s land and marine areas by 2030 and mobilize substantial funding for biodiversity. While the agreement underscores the importance of balancing human health, animals, plants, and ecosystems, fungi are notably absent from the narrative.
Furci stresses that discussing flora and fauna without including fungi is outdated, as fungi were recognized as a distinct kingdom in 1969 and are integral to the survival of many species. She emphasizes that understanding the role of fungi is crucial for addressing global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss.
Many fungi species remain unidentified and uncounted, with only a small fraction formally described. Threats to fungi parallel those faced by other organisms, including habitat loss, fragmentation, and climate change. Furci highlights the interconnectedness of fungi with plants, animals, and humans, emphasizing their significance in various aspects such as food, medicine, and ecosystem functions.
Efforts to protect rare fungi are hindered by limited knowledge of existing species and the challenges in identifying and quantifying them. Conservationists are striving to include fungi in biodiversity monitoring and conservation planning, recognizing their pivotal role in ecosystem health. Furci advocates for broader recognition of fungi within international agreements to enhance global conservation efforts.
By raising awareness and acknowledging the importance of fungi in everyday life, individuals can contribute to their conservation. Furci believes that integrating fungi into discussions alongside plants and animals is a fundamental step towards enhancing public understanding and conservation efforts.