Multicellular fungi: benefits, threats and their reflection in life and culture

04 Dec 2024

Multicellular fungi are a diverse group of organisms that play an important role in ecosystems, industry, and human life. Their structure, consisting of many threads (mycelium), allows them to effectively decompose organic matter and interact with the environment. Multicellular fungi are actively used by humans in a variety of areas due to their unique properties.

One of the most important roles of multicellular fungi is their participation in the food industry. For example, fungi such as Penicillium are used to create noble blue cheeses such as Roquefort and Camembert. Aspergillus is used to produce soy sauce, ferment starch and sugar. Some fungi serve as sources of useful biologically active substances, including enzymes and vitamins.

Pharmaceuticals also benefit greatly from multicellular fungi. It was from them that penicillin was isolated - the first antibiotic that revolutionized medicine. Fungi are also a source of other antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and anti-cancer drugs.

However, multicellular fungi are not always allies. Pathogenic species such as Aspergillus fumigatus or Cladosporium can cause fungal infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Mold, for example, can cause allergies or poisoning by releasing dangerous mycotoxins. The fungus Fusarium can infect grain crops, causing yield losses and health risks.

In ecosystems, multicellular fungi act as decomposers, returning nutrients to the soil. They form mycorrhiza, a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, helping the latter obtain water and minerals. Thanks to this, fungi are a key link in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.

Multicellular fungi have also found their way into popular culture, including video games. For example, in the game "The Last of Us", the main plot is built around a fungal infection that turns people into aggressive infected. This idea is inspired by the real fungus Cordyceps, which parasitizes insects. In other games, fungi often appear as environmental elements, resources, or enemies, such as the giant mushroom forests in Terraria or the unique creatures in Dark Souls. They add an air of mystery to the games and highlight the richness of nature.

Thus, multicellular fungi are amazing organisms that can be both beneficial and dangerous to humans. They combine science, medicine, and creativity, influencing our lives and inspiring new generations of researchers and artists. Their study continues to open new horizons, from improving technology to creating impressive worlds in art and games.