What is mycelia?

Mycelia refers to the vegetative part of a fungus, which consists of a vast network of thread-like structures called hyphae. These hyphae function similarly to roots in higher plants, absorbing nutrients from the environment and breaking down organic material. This vegetative state is crucial for the growth and reproduction of fungi, as it allows them to effectively gather resources.

While the fruiting body of a fungus, which produces spores, is an important aspect of the fungal life cycle, it is not the mycelium itself. The root structure of a plant is distinct from fungal structures, and pigments in plant leaves refer to chlorophyll and other compounds involved in photosynthesis, which are unrelated to mycelia. Understanding mycelia helps in recognizing the role fungi play in ecosystems, particularly in nutrient cycling and decomposing organic matter.