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Science
Jun 14, 2026
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Subterranean Fungi Networks Stretch 110 Quadrillion Kilometres, Study Finds

AI Summary
A groundbreaking study has mapped the global network of subterranean fungi, revealing that it stretches over 110 quadrillion kilometres, almost 750 million times the distance from Earth to the sun. The fungi play a crucial role in sustaining plant life and regulating the climate.

The Discovery of Subterranean Fungi Networks

A groundbreaking new study has found that the subterranean fungi networks on Earth stretch over 110 quadrillion kilometres, which is almost 750 million times the distance from the Earth to the sun.

The Role of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are networks of tubular cells called hyphae that sustain life on Earth by forming critical partnerships with more than 70% of plants. The networks, which have been forming for about 475 million years, provide nutrients and water in exchange for the carbon produced by the plants, and help to regulate the climate by drawing carbon into soils.

The Data Analysis

  • The study used machine-learning models with data from more than 16,000 soil cores from around the world to produce the first ever global map of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi networks.
  • The researchers calculated that the fungi networks, if stretched end to end, would reach a length of 110 quadrillion kilometres.

The Impact Analysis

The study also documents potential threats to this life-giving infrastructure, with the researchers finding that, on average, network densities in cropland are 47.3% lower than in wild ecosystems. The scientists warned that the consequences of the loss of fungal networks could be wide ranging, including reduced soil carbon storage and increased chemicals in waterways.

The Prediction

The researchers called for closer collaboration between farmers and fungi, and encouraged sustainable agricultural practices that protect and support soil fungi. They also highlighted the need for conservation efforts to protect regions with high-density fungal networks, such as grasslands and prairie ecosystems.