Reviewing the contributions of macrofungi to forest ecosystem processes and services

Macrofungi are vital components of any forest ecosystem, performing different roles crucial to ecosystem functioning. Macrofungi play effective roles in ecosystem processes such as nutrient cycling. Ectomycorrhizal fungi and plant symbionts work together to accumulate, use and transfer essential nutrients, especially in nitrogen/phosphorus-limited environments. Pathogenic and predatory macrofungi exploit other resources such as plants and animals to obtain nutrients needed for growth. These groups of macrofungi also contribute to the species diversity of forest ecosystems. Saprotrophic macrofungi degrade available organic matter from dead plants and soil organic matter. Macrofungi also play an important role in carbon sequestration in the forest underground as well as in soil formation. Macrofungi remediate pollutants in the environment via extracellular enzymes. Mycelial networks that connect macrofungi to their symbiotic hosts and substrates enable most of these functions. Mycelial networks facilitate the absorption and transport of nutrients as well as the secretion of enzymes and other organic substances. Spore-producing bodies of macrofungi serve as a food source for wildlife. Fungal spores can act as aerosols in rain formation. All of these functions of macrofungi are necessary for maintaining biodiversity and healthy forest ecosystems. However, the contributions of macrofungi to ecosystem processes are often taken for granted or not fully recognized, offering key services that are easily overlooked in planning processes and policymaking. The present review summarizes the major roles of macrofungi in ecosystem functioning and services rendered, and the interrelationships between these functions and services in the forest ecosystems.