Economic Importance Of Microbial Taxonomy – Fungi

Beginning billion of years ago, by a process that was chaotic and violent, the dust circulating a newly formed star in the Milky Way galaxy began to aggregate into larger bodies. About 4.5 billion years ago, one of these bodies reached planet size: Earth had formed. Within the next 1 billion years, the first cellular life focus appeared; they were microbes. Since then, microorganisms have evolved and diversified to occupy virtually every habitat on earth.

       Fungi are an enormous group of organisms; about 90,000 fungal species have been described and some estimates suggest that

1.5 million species exist. It is therefore not surprising that the taxonomy of these organisms has been revised numerous times. Fungi are a diverse group of microorganisms that range from unicellular forms (yeast) to molds and mushrooms. Because of their metabolic capabilities, many fungi play beneficial roles in relation to human well being and safety – these include producing antibiotics and decomposing dead organisms.

       Fungi sometimes referred to as ‘the true fungi’ or Eumycota {‘eu’ meaning true and ‘mykes’ meaning fungus} describe eukaryotic organisms that are spore boring, having absorptive nutrition, lack chlorophyll and reproduce both sexually and asexually.

Fungi are very important in a variety of ways; yeasts are essential to many industrial processes involving fermentation. Examples include the making of bread, wine, beer, cheeses and soy sauce. They are also important in the commercial production of many organic acids (citric, Gallic etc). In addition, fungi are important research tools in the study of fundamental biological processes. Other economic fungal importance includes;

Recycling: Together with bacteria the fungi form a major role in recycling dead and decayed     matter.

Food: Many mushrooms are used as food by humans. Mushrooms species are edible and are cultured in many parts of the world for sales.

Medicines: Penicillin antibiotic is derived from a common fungi penicillum. Many other fungi also produce antibiotics which are used to control diseases in humans and animals (griseofulvin).

Bio-control Agents: Fungi are used to parasitize insects which help control pests. Spores of fungi are sprayed on crops; this method is cheaper and environmentally friendly.

Food Spoilage: Fungi play a major role in recycling organic material. Fungal damage is responsible for large losses of stored food usually when the food contains moisture.