Definition

Total fungi refers to the combined amount of all phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) that form the membranes of fungal cells present in a soil or organic sample. PLFA analysis is a reliable method for estimating fungal biomass and understanding the microbial community structure.

Importance

Fungi are essential components of soil ecosystems and contribute to several critical processes:

• Decomposition of complex organic matter: Breaking down recalcitrant materials such as lignin and cellulose.
• Soil structure improvement: Forming stable aggregates that enhance aeration and water retention.
• Nutrient availability: Excreting organic acids that mobilise nutrients, making them more accessible to plants.
• Disease suppression: Increasing resistance to pathogens through competition or predation.

Factors influencing fungal abundance

Fungal populations thrive in environments rich in recalcitrant organic materials with a high carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio, such as straw, compost, and woody residues. These substrates provide the complex carbon sources fungi need for growth and activity.

Role in soil ecosystem

Fungi are key drivers of soil health and fertility. They complement bacterial activity by decomposing materials that bacteria cannot easily break down, ensuring a continuous nutrient cycle. Their ability to stabilise soil structure and suppress diseases makes them indispensable for sustainable agriculture.

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