| Themes > Science > Earth Sciences > Geology > Soils > Soil Composition > Components and Structure > Fungi |
Molds, yeasts, and mushrooms are all fungi. Although they are classified as plants, they do not contain chlorophyll and so must depend on other plants for their nourishment. Yeasts are not common in soil, but molds and mushrooms play important roles. Molds may be as numerous as bacteria in soil. In fact, under conditions of poor aeration, low temperature, and acidity, molds outnumber bacteria because they tolerate these conditions more easily. Some molds are detrimental to plant growth. In the soil, molds are especially important for organic matter decomposition and humus formation. |
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