Biology, one of the broadest and most complex sciences, is made up of various specialized branches. Today, we are going to delve into one of these branches: mycology, which is the study of fungi. Many people wonder what does mycology study, and in this article we will answer that question clearly, also addressing its characteristics and areas of research.
What is mycology?
Mycology can be defined as the branch of biology that studies fungi. Although many people associate them with plants due to their structure and growth habits, fungi belong to a completely separate kingdom called Fungi. This is due to several unique features such as their chitinous cell wall and their inability to photosynthesize. Instead, fungi are heterotrophs, which means they depend on external food sources.
Furthermore, fungi do not have true tissues, their structures are formed by filaments called hyphae that constitute the body of the fungus or myceliumThey can reproduce through spores and are divided into two large groups: unicellular (such as yeasts) and multicellular (filamentous fungi).
What does mycology study?
This discipline is not limited to a single area. Mycology encompasses the study of the anatomical and physiological characteristics of fungi, their role in the ecosystem, and their impact on human health and agriculture. Not only are the beneficial aspects of fungi studied, such as their use in food production and medicines, but also their negative effects such as infections and poisoning.
Medical mycology
One of the most important branches is the medical mycology, which is dedicated to studying the impact of fungi on human and animal health. This includes the mycosis (infections caused by fungi in different parts of the body), spore allergies and intoxications by the consumption of poisonous mushrooms. Research in medical mycology has been crucial in the development of drugs such as penicillin, discovered from the fungus Penicillium.
Medical mycologists also investigate fungi that cause allergic problems such as Aspergillus or affecting internal organs. This area is vital since certain fungal infections can be fatal, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
agricultural mycology
In the field of farming, fungi play both harmful and beneficial roles. At one extreme, certain fungi can act as pests, infecting crops and causing serious economic losses. This field of study is called fungal phytopathologyHowever, other fungi are symbioticforming mycorrhiza that help plants absorb nutrients such as phosphorus, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
In addition, some mushrooms are high-value crops, such as edible mushrooms (for example, mushrooms and truffles) that have a prominent place in gastronomy and the economy. Mushrooms are highly appreciated not only for their taste, but also for their nutritional properties.
Fungiculture
It is also important to highlight the development of the fungiculture, which is the science of mushroom cultivation. In addition to mushrooms, mushrooms such as champignons are cultivated yeast for the production of foods such as bread, beer and certain types of cheese. In this process, fungi carry out the fermentation, a key biological function for the food industry.
The sociocultural importance of mushrooms
In certain cultures, mushrooms also occupy a special place, not only in culinary terms, but also in the field of psychoactive. The hallucinogenic mushrooms They have been used for centuries in religious ceremonies and shamanic rituals. To this day, their properties are still being investigated and their effects on the human brain are being studied.
However, it is important to remember that in many countries the cultivation and consumption of these mushrooms is illegal. If you wish to learn more about this aspect, we recommend that you consult local laws before delving into their research or consumption.
The study of mycology in academia
To study mycology in depth, it is necessary to first obtain a bachelor's degree in biology, where subjects such as the botany and microbiologyAfter obtaining the degree, one can choose to specialise in mycology, either through postgraduate studies or specific courses offered at universities and scientific institutions.
branches of mycology
Medical mycology
As already mentioned, medical mycology occupies a prominent place in the study of fungal diseases in humans and animals. It involves investigating the pathogenesis of these organisms, as well as the responses of the immune system and possible therapeutic options.
agricultural mycology
This field studies the use of fungi in agriculture, such as mycorrhiza, which improve plant growth by facilitating the absorption of minerals. Research is also being done on how to control fungal diseases that affect crops.
Phytopathology
La plant pathology is another important branch that focuses on fungal diseases in plants. These infections can cause significant losses in agriculture, making research and prevention of these diseases crucial.
The importance of mycology
Mycology is essential in many areas of daily life. From the field doctor, where it contributes to the development of drugs such as antibiotics and antifungals, to the farming and eating, mushrooms have multiple uses and effects. The continuous study of mushrooms allows us not only to benefit from their properties, but also to mitigate and prevent their harmful effects.
Understanding what mycology is and how it relates to various aspects of our daily lives helps us to further appreciate the crucial role these organisms play in the balance of ecosystems and in our own survival.