mycelium
collection of hyphae
Mycelium refers to the vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a mass of branching, thread-like hyphae that spread out beneath the surface of the soil, in rotting wood or other substrates. Mycelium is responsible for the growth and feeding of a fungus, and is essential for its survival. It is notable for being the largest organism in the world, with some mycelial networks covering thousands of acres.
Some of the functions of mycelium include the absorption of nutrients from the substrate, the breakdown of organic matter and the formation of symbiotic relationships with other organisms such as plants and bacteria. Mycelium also has medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for its antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also increasingly being used as a sustainable alternative to materials such as Styrofoam for packaging and insulation.
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