Basic Knowledge in Agriculture #58

INTRODUCTION

Is really another good opportunity for me to participate in this contest. Farmers interact with different kinds of organisms which may support the growth of the plants. They also come across organisms which may pose serious threat to the development and growth of plants. In this contest, I will be sharing what I understand by mycology, the importance of mycology and its real-life applications as outlined by the host of the contest.

What is Mycology

Mycology has to do with the study of different kinds of fungi. It is an aspect of biology that describes how the fungi in their different species, forms and operates. Some types of fungi such as:

• Morels
• Puffballs
• Yeast
• Rusts
• Mushrooms
• Lichens
• Moulds etc.
  Mycology now reveals how humans, animals and plants make contacts with these fungi. It goes further to make us understand the structure, ecology, genetics and the lifecycle of these fungi. Hence, through mycology, we understand how useful or harmful fungi are to us.

Why mycology is Important

The importance of mycology is hinged on its wide usefulness in various aspects of life. It is therefore important because of the following functions:

• It has industrial and environmental importance as they help in making our environment clean. This happens when the fungi breaks down harmful substances and detoxify the environment.

• It is useful for agricultural purposes

• Necessary in food production

• Manufacturing of medicines

Real-life Applications of Mycology

Some of the real-life applications of mycology include the following:

• For education and research purposes

• Useful for production biotechnology items such as papers, clothing items and detergents.

• Obtaining environmental cleanliness through bioremediation.

• Manufacturing medicines such as antibiotics, antifungal medicines, penicillin and vaccines.

• Production of anti fungal pests, biofertilizers and boosting soil nutrients for agriculture.

• Used in food and beverage companies

These my contribution to this contest. I now invite the following persons to participate in this contest:

@cletuskevin
@oasiskp
@hannybanny