Fungi are very important ecologically, because they are
one of the most important decomposers in most ecosystems. They help to break down plant
fibers such as dead leaves and wood and allow the nutrients to be released into the
soil.
Fungi are useful to humans because they have economic
value. Some fungi, such as mushrooms and truffles, are eaten directly, and others are
used to produce things of value. Several important
including penicillin, were discovered by studying the fungi that naturally produce
them.
On the negative side, there are many fungi that can
cause infections of varying severity in humans. Athlete's foot, ringworm, and thrush are
all fungal infections of the surface of the body. A variety of fungi can also cause
respiratory
infections.
Fungi also cause wastage and loss of
foods. Some fungi, such as powdery mildew and ergot, can attack and spoil crops before
they are harvested, while many others cause food spoilage when food is being transported
to market or is in storage.
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