Scientists Map Earth's Underground Fungal Networks, Measuring 68 Quadrillion Miles of Filaments
By
Emily Anthes
Toasted just enough. A reliable bake, gently seasoned.
Summary
Scientists have used machine learning and high-resolution imaging robots to measure and map the vast underground networks of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. These fungal filaments, when laid end to end, would extend for 68 quadrillion miles, forming what researchers describe as Earth's hidden carbon circulatory system beneath the soil surface.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledA hidden circulatory system pulses just beneath the planet's surface.
There, embedded in the soil, are dense networks of microorganisms known
Laid end to end, the filaments of these fungi would extend for 68 quadrillion miles.
You might also wanna read
Arctic Research Expedition Studies Underground Fungal Networks and Carbon Storage
A team of biologists led by Michael Van Nuland embarks on an Arctic road trip along Alaska's Dalton Highway to study the critical undergroun

Global quantification of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal network density and biomass
This article presents a scientific study on the global density and biomass of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) networks. AMF form symbiot
Biohybrid Robot Controlled by Living Fungus Unveiled by Engineers
Engineers have developed a biohybrid robot that uses a living fungus to move and sense its environment, potentially leading to advancements
Microbe Chroococcidiopsis Shows Potential to Produce Oxygen from Martian Soil
Scientists have discovered that the extremophile microbe Chroococcidiopsis can grow on materials similar to Martian soil and produce oxygen,
Shiitake Mushroom Mycelium Used to Create Sustainable Memristors for Neuromorphic Computing
Researchers have developed sustainable memristors using shiitake mushroom mycelium for high-frequency bioelectronics applications. The study
Fungi Gain Recognition for Their Essential Ecological and Economic Roles
The article highlights the growing recognition of fungi's crucial ecological and economic importance after being historically overlooked. It
