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Health & Science4h 13m ago

Researchers have for the first time quantified and mapped the global length and mass of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal networks, which are 110 quadrillion kilometers long and sequester 1 billion tons of carbon annually.

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Who
Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN), Toby Kiers, Justin Stewart, James Bever, Corentin Bisot, AMOLF
What
Researchers have for the first time quantified and mapped the global length and mass of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal networks, which are 110 quadrillion kilometers long and sequester 1 billion tons of carbon annually.
When
Thu, 11 Jun 2026 22:44:55 GMT · 4h 13m ago
Where
globally ·
Why
The study aims to understand the distribution, density, and importance of these fungal networks for plant life and carbon sequestration, as they were previously unmapped globally.
The Frontline Impact

How this affects you

These extensive underground fungal networks play a critical role in carbon sequestration and nutrient exchange for plants, with their global mapping highlighting areas of high density, such as grasslands, and areas of threat, like agricultural lands, ultimately emphasizing the urgent need for their protection to combat climate change.

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