competition among fungi
– E.g. Typhula phacorrhiza suppress development of gray mold caused by T.incarnata- Note the “dead vs. alive” appearance of the grass- The teo fungal species compete primarily for food, iron, and other elements and space
Competition is a common occurrence among fungi, whether they are living on the same substrate or competing for the same resources. Below are the various ways in which competition can occur among fungi:
1. Nutrient Competition: Fungi need nutrients to grow and survive, and they often compete for the same resources such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Some fungi can secrete enzymes that break down complex organic matter, making it easier for them to absorb the nutrients they need. However, when several fungi occupy the same substrate, competition for nutrients often arises.
2. Space Competition: Fungi can grow and spread over surfaces, and they can sometimes compete for space. When two or more fungi occupy the same space, they can become entwined and interfere with each other’s growth and reproduction. In such cases, the fungi may produce chemicals that inhibit the growth of other fungi.
3. Light Competition: Some fungi require light to grow and reproduce, and they can compete for sunlight when growing in areas with low light. Some fungi are shade-tolerant and can grow under the canopy, while others require direct sunlight to grow and compete for the same.
4. Hyphal Competition: Hyphae are the thread-like structures that make up the fungal body, and they can compete with one another. Hyphae from two different fungi can grow towards each other, entwine, and then continue to grow. The two fungi can interfere with each other’s growth and reproduction, and this can lead to the production of toxic compounds, which may inhibit the growth of one or both fungi.
5. Antibiosis: Fungi can produce antimicrobial compounds to compete with other fungi for resources. Antibiosis is the process by which one fungus produces chemicals that inhibit the growth of other fungi. These chemicals can be toxic and may cause the death of the competing fungi.
In conclusion, competition among fungi is a common occurrence that plays an important role in shaping fungal communities. Competition for nutrients, space, and light, as well as hyphal competition and antibiosis, can all lead to the selection of different fungal species and the formation of diverse fungal communities.
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