Scientists explore the hidden world of marine fungi in ocean ecosystems

Marine fungi, which make up 5% of ocean biomass, are often overlooked despite being known for over a century. Most are microscopic, with marine lichens being a visible exception found on rocky shores. Research on marine fungi is limited, leaving many questions about their diversity and ecological roles. They fall into two categories: distinct marine species and those closely related to land fungi, complicating their classification. Marine fungi adapt to challenges like food scarcity by changing their cell size and shape. Some, like Paradendryphiella salina, have evolved new enzymes to break down seaweed, showcasing the ongoing exchange between land and sea ecosystems.