Fungi and the urban environment: A review

Abstract

Although the functional importance of fungi in ecosystems is well recognised, there has been comparatively little focus on their role in urban systems and the ways fungi may be affected by urbanisation. This review advances our knowledge in these areas by drawing together urban fungal studies along with relevant broader research on both fungal and urban ecology. From these studies we discuss the ecological roles of fungi, such as their beneficial interactions with plants and animals. We also highlight the ecological processes that could potentially threaten the persistence of fungi in cities. Among these are the dangers of soil pollution and changes to the biota that form relationships with fungi. We conclude by suggesting some ways forward for research in this area, as well as considering the potential for fungal conservation in cities if their ecology can be understood and communicated to land managers.