Do not leave fungi out of impact assessments

Fungi were largely excluded from a recent comprehensive assessment of global biodiversity loss, according to a study published in Nature on June 23, 2026. The assessment, which focused primarily on vertebrates, plants, and insects, overlooked the significant role fungi play in ecosystems. Researchers argue that this omission leads to an incomplete understanding of biodiversity decline and its consequences. Fungi are crucial for nutrient cycling, decomposition, and supporting plant life, with an estimated 2.2 to 3.8 million fungal species existing globally, though only about 150,000 have been described. Their absence from major impact assessments means that conservation efforts may be misdirected, failing to address threats to fungal diversity. The study highlights the need to integrate fungal data into future biodiversity monitoring and policy-making to ensure a more accurate picture of ecosystem health and to develop effective conservation strategies.