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Which organism has the most symbiotic relationships in the world?

Worley Penrose

As a social media user, when we think about symbiotic relationships, we often think of humans and their domesticated animals. However, the world's most symbiotic organisms are actually much smaller and perhaps not as commonly thought of.

The answer to the question "which organism has the most symbiotic relationships in the world?" is likely the fungi kingdom. While many people may not immediately associate fungi with symbiosis, these organisms have an astonishing number of mutually beneficial relationships with other species.

One of the most well-known examples of fungal symbiosis is the relationship between fungi and plants. In particular, mycorrhizal fungi form a mutually beneficial relationship with most plant species, including many of the world's agricultural crops. Mycorrhizal fungi are able to extend the reach of plant roots by forming a network of mycelium, which can help plants access nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen. Meanwhile, plants provide a source of energy for the fungi in the form of carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis. This symbiotic relationship allows both fungi and plants to thrive, and it is estimated that mycorrhizal fungi are present in over 90% of all terrestrial plants.

Another important symbiotic relationship involving fungi is the one between fungi and bacteria. In many cases, fungi and bacteria work together to break down organic matter and recycle nutrients in the soil. One well-known example of this type of relationship is the formation of "lichen," which is actually a mutualistic partnership between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. In lichen, the fungus provides a protective environment for the photosynthetic partner, while the photosynthetic partner provides carbohydrates to the fungus. This type of relationship can be particularly important in harsh environments where other forms of life may struggle to survive.

Interestingly, fungi also form symbiotic relationships with other groups of organisms, including insects and animals. For example, leafcutter ants cultivate a type of fungus in underground chambers, which the ants feed with freshly cut leaves. In turn, the fungus produces a type of food that the ants eat, and the ant-fungus relationship has been likened to agriculture. Meanwhile, some species of fungi grow on the skin of amphibians in a type of symbiosis that is believed to provide protection from pathogenic microbes.

In conclusion, while many people may not think of fungi as particularly "social" organisms, they actually have an incredible number of symbiotic relationships with other species. From plants and bacteria to insects and animals, fungi have found ways to coexist and support one another in some of the most creative and mutually beneficial ways imaginable. So, the next time someone asks you which organism has the most symbiotic relationships in the world, remember the amazing and often overlooked role that fungi play in maintaining the health and vitality of our planet's ecosystems.