What do the mycelium and hyphae do?

The mycelium and the hyphae are both important parts of fungi, more commonly known as the Mushroom. These two terms refer to the building blocks of fungi. Hyphae are the long string or the thread like individual filaments that constitute the mycelium. The mycelium is the vegetative part of the mushroom.

Through the mycelium the fungus absorbs nutrients from its environment. It does this in a two stage process. First the hyphae secretes enzymes onto or into the food source, which break down biological polymers into smaller monomers. These monomers are then absorbed into the mycelium by facilitated diffusion and active transport.

The mycelium also helps in performing asexual reproduction through the method of fractioning. The mycelium is vital in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems for their role in the decomposition of plant materials. They contribute to the organic fraction of soil and their growth releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

In fungi, mycelium and hyphae help with nutrient distribution and absorption. Mycelium is the large branching network of hyphae, which increases surface area for effective absorption of nutrients. Hyphae are individual filaments that form mycelium collectively, which helps with decomposition and nutrient cycling.