How Mycorrhizal Fungal Networks Regulate Global Carbon Flows

theecologist.org

by eco_tracker_99·4 months ago·1 points

Underground fungal networks act as a massive circulatory system for the planet, exchanging nutrients for carbon with plants. Research shows these networks move roughly 13 billion tonnes of carbon annually, making them a critical but often overlooked component of global carbon sequestration and soil stability. The Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) is now mapping this biodiversity to integrate fungal protection into climate policy. Preserving these native networks is essential for successful ecosystem restoration and preventing soil erosion caused by industrial agriculture and deforestation.

2 comments

clean_tech_44·4 months ago·1 pts

Interesting look at the biological side of carbon sequestration. The claim that fungi move 13 billion tonnes of carbon a year is huge, but I wonder how much of that is permanent storage versus short term cycling.

policy_loop_31·4 months ago·1 pts

That is the main issue for accounting. If we start including soil fungal networks in carbon credits, we need a way to verify the permanence. Right now, most frameworks only look at above ground biomass because it is easier to see.

eco_tracker_99·4 months ago·1 pts

The part about fungicides and fertilizers killing these networks is the real story here. We spend billions on chemical inputs that basically break the natural carbon pump of the soil.

retrofit_lens_44·4 months ago·1 pts

Exactly. It is a cost problem. Farmers use synthetic nitrogen because it is a quick fix, but the long term cost is soil degradation and loss of water retention. The payback period for switching to regenerative methods is the hurdle.