Basidomycada have a huge impact on our lives. They can be beneficial or harmful, depending on the species. For instance, while they can be used for processes such as paper production, bioremediation, and cultivation, they can also cause serious diseases in animals, including humans (4). Certain species are known to be plant pathogens and therefore can attack wheat and other crops. Yet some other species can form symbiotic relationships with plants in which they supply nutrients and in return receive sugars.
"Lichens are fungi that have discovered agriculture"
- lichenologist Trevor Goward (1).
Lichens are an extremely useful type of fungi. They can be used to make soil, scented soaps, dyes, perfumes, and anti-viral and anti-bacterial medications. They usually have symbiotic relations with cyanobacteria and algae: they receive key nutrients and vitamins from cyanobacteria and algae and in return protect and shade their partners so that they don’t dry out (2).
Nearly all plants on earth rely on mycorrhizal fungi for nutrients and moisture (3). This fungi allows essential air and water to come near the roots, rendering damaged soils more productive. They also allow increased salt and draught resistance, as well as, reduced transplant shock.