Fungi are extraordinary organisms that occupy a unique kingdom in biology, separate from plants, animals and bacteria. Essential to ecosystems, fungi play pivotal roles in food production, medicine, bioremediation and the regulation of nutrient cycles. These versatile organisms have shaped life on Earth for millions of years and continue to support biodiversity, improve soil health and enhance ecosystems’ resilience to climate change.
For instance, fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants, boosting root systems, improving soil structure and preventing erosion—critical in areas prone to extreme weather conditions. Fungi help plants access water more efficiently, even from dry soil, mitigating drought impacts. Whether through this symbiosis or their role as decomposers, fungi are indispensable partners in maintaining environmental balance.
The Secret Lives of Fungi
Fungi reproduce through spores, microscopic structures spread by wind, water, or animals. Once settled in soil, these spores grow into hyphae, forming a mycelial network—a fungal equivalent of plant roots. This network breaks down nutrients and organic matter, sustaining both fungi and surrounding plants. Through photosynthesis, plants provide fungi with sugars and fats in return for nutrients and water—nature’s own teamwork.
Fungi thrive in diverse environments, from temperate forests to the extremes of compost heaps and Antarctic ice. Adapting to hot or cold conditions, their enzymes have immense industrial value such as producing biofuels, bioremediation agents and food-processing aids.
A Genomic Powerhouse
Fungi owe their adaptability to their genomic complexity. With genome sizes ranging from 2 Mb to 2 Gb and up to 35,000 genes, fungi outshine bacteria in their ability to produce diverse compounds and survive environmental stressors. This diversity fuels their capability to create enzymes, antibiotics, antioxidants and even toxins—all vital to agriculture, medicine and industry .
Their role as decomposers highlights their enzymatic arsenal, breaking down substances like cellulose and chitin. Fungi also produce secondary metabolites, natural compounds that shape interactions with other organisms and hold significant promise for crop protection. With over 15,000 bioactive compounds already known, fungi account for nearly half of all microbial-derived natural products in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and cosmetics.
Untapped Potential
Despite their importance, fungal genomics remains an underexplored frontier. Recent sequencing efforts reveal a wealth of undiscovered biosynthetic pathways. Algorithms suggest each fungal species harbours approximately 50 biological clusters, hinting at a treasure trove of 150,000 potential metabolic pathways just within FA Bio’s fungal library of over 3,000 isolates. These pathways could yield innovative solutions for agriculture, from enhancing soil health to addressing pest and disease challenges.
Fungi and Regenerative Agriculture
FA Bio is committed to harnessing the power of fungi to support farmers in their transition to regenerative agriculture. Soil fungi play a critical role in this journey, improving biodiversity and revitalising soil health. By unlocking the genomic secrets of fungi, we aim to develop sustainable practices that protect crops, enhance resilience, and promote a healthier planet.
Fungi are nature’s hidden allies. Together, we can explore their full potential to create a brighter and more sustainable future
Andrea González González, Head of Research at FA Bio
