Subterranean Fungi Networks More Than 100 Quadrillion km in Length
Original: Subterranean fungi networks more than 100 quadrillion km in length
A global mapping study finds Earth's arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi networks exceed 100 quadrillion km in total length.
Researchers have completed a global mapping of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) networks, calculating their combined subterranean length at more than 100 quadrillion kilometers. AMF form symbiotic relationships with the roots of most land plant species, exchanging nutrients for carbon. The study highlights the massive scale of this hidden biological infrastructure and its implications for climate and plant life.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are among the most ecologically consequential organisms on Earth, forming symbiotic relationships with an estimated 80% of all terrestrial plant species. A global mapping study reported by The Guardian on June 11, 2026, has produced a headline-grabbing finding: the combined length of subterranean AMF networks worldwide exceeds 100 quadrillion kilometers — a figure that reframes how we understand the living fabric of soil.
Free shows the 3-line summary; Pro unlocks the full deep summary (~300 words) so you never have to click through.
See Pro plans →Want the original English / full article?
Read on Hacker News (AI keywords) →Summaries are AI-generated; the original article is authoritative.