Cooperation and Conflict; How Fungi Shape Our World

Abstract

The kingdom of fungi is gaining more attention as new research sheds light on their mysteri-ous ways. Their ability to express some of the most cooperative, as well as some of the most antagonistic behaviours, makes them an indispensable key of life. They helped plants to colonize land and with it, lay the foundation for new structures of ecological balance. Researchers are trying to find ways to utilize fungi’s cooperative nature, while simultaneously battling fungal pathogens that rival against that what humans have domesticated. Either with or against plants, bacteria and animals, including our own bodies, fungi are everywhere. This review summarizes some of the most important relationships that fungi have established with all the other kingdoms. Moreover, some of the challenges that humans face as fungi keep shaping our world are discussed.