Scientists Map Earth's Underground Fungal Networks, Revealing 68 Quadrillion Miles of Filaments
By
Emily Anthes
A second-rack bagel that's nearly first-rack. Tasty stuff.
Summary
Scientists have used machine learning and high-resolution imaging robots to measure and map Earth's vast underground fungal networks. The study reveals that the filamentous hyphae of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, laid end to end, would stretch 68 quadrillion miles. This hidden subterranean system functions as a carbon circulatory system for the planet, highlighting the immense scale and ecological importance of fungal networks in soil ecosystems.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledLaid end to end, the filaments of these fungi would extend for 68 quadrillion miles.
A hidden circulatory system pulses just beneath the planet's surface.
With machine learning and a high-resolution imaging robot, scientists measured and mapped the extent of Earth's carbon circulatory system.
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