When we move soil, cut down trees, and plant new vegetation during development and landscaping work, we alter urban fungal habitat. Fungi provide important ecosystem functions; some decompose dead organic matter while mycorrhizal fungi impact vegetation health by facilitating nutrient and water uptake.
There is fantastic diversity of urban fungi, many of which we cannot identify.
Some members of the fungal community are strongly influenced by the tree community, including the presence of old trees that are protected during development activities. Others seem to be randomly distributed throughout the landscape.
Property owner actions influence urban fungi species, but so does random chance.
Fungal populations may be helped by more robust tree protection and reduced soil disturbance.
Interested in how you can apply these ideas to your property, tree protection policy, etc.?
