Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

New Atlas Reveals 90% of Fungal Diversity Unprotected

7/24/2025

39 7

Summary

Story summary

The Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) has unveiled the Underground Atlas, a groundbreaking map of Earth's mycorrhizal fungal diversity. By analyzing 2.8 billion DNA sequences from 130 countries, the study uncovers that over 90% of biodiversity hotspots lack protection. These vital fungi play a key role in carbon storage and ecosystem health, yet continue to be neglected in conservation initiatives.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) has unveiled the Underground Atlas, a groundbreaking map of Earth's mycorrhizal fungal diversity. By analyzing 2.8 billion DNA sequences from 130 countries, the study uncovers that over 90% of biodiversity hotspots lack protection. These vital fungi play a key role in carbon storage and ecosystem health, yet continue to be neglected in conservation initiatives.