5 minute lesson
Meet the Internet of Fungus!
What if we told you that an internet made of fungus is helping tree stay in constant communication with one another?
The “Wood Wide Web” is a network of fungus underground that connects trees and shrubs to each other. The plants can send signals to each other through this fungus web, just like our internet!
Why It Matters
It is fascinating to see how nature is interconnected, and it’s amazing to think about how much we still don’t know. By learning more about this connectivity network, applications can be used to help agricultural practices become more effective, as well as helping to improve conservation efforts.
The wood wide web is still a bit of a mystery to us, but the more we learn, the better we can understand how to best use this web to help the world be greener.
Let's Talk About It
Gross Science
Bizarre stories from the slimy, smelly, creepy world of science. New episodes every Monday!
Gross Science is brought to you by PBS Digital Studios, WGBH, and NOVA. Created by Anna Rothschild. Follow Anna on Twitter (@anna_rothschild) and Instagram (@annarothschild)!