Lesson
Fungi Networks Stretch 100 Quadrillion Kilometers
Read this news story in English at three levels, easy, standard, and advanced (B1–C1) — with vocabulary and a comprehension quiz.
A new study reveals that underground fungi networks can stretch over 100 quadrillion kilometers, supporting plant life and regulating climate.
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Standard — Natural English
71 words · ~1 min readEasy version (A2–B1)
A new study found that fungi networks in the soil are very long. These fungi help plants grow by giving them nutrients and water. They also help the climate by storing carbon. The study shows these networks are very important for life on Earth.Standard version (B1–B2)
A recent study has discovered that the underground networks of fungi, known as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, can stretch over 100 quadrillion kilometers. These networks play a crucial role in supporting plant life by providing essential nutrients and water in exchange for carbon. They also help regulate the climate by storing carbon in the soil. Despite their importance, the study highlights that little is known about their distribution and density in ecosystems.Advanced version (C1–C2)
A groundbreaking study has revealed that subterranean networks of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can extend more than 100 quadrillion kilometers, significantly impacting plant life and climate regulation. These networks, formed over 475 million years, create vital partnerships with over 70% of plants, facilitating nutrient and water exchange for carbon. The research, which utilized machine-learning models and data from over 16,000 soil cores, produced the first global map of these fungi networks. It also raised concerns about the threats posed to these essential systems, particularly in agricultural settings where network densities are notably lower than in wild ecosystems.Lesson audio
Standard level
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Test your understanding
01What is the length of the fungi networks discovered in the study?
02What do arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi help plants with?
03How much lower are network densities in cropland compared to wild ecosystems?
04What organization was set up to study these fungi networks?
Discussion
How can we protect underground fungi networks to support plant life?
Vocabulary
subterranean word
existing or occurring under the ground
“Subterranean fungi networks are vital for plant growth.”
mycorrhizal word
relating to a symbiotic association between fungi and plant roots
“Mycorrhizal fungi help plants absorb nutrients.”
networks word
a group or system of interconnected things
“The networks of fungi are essential for healthy soil.”
ecosystems word
a biological community of interacting organisms and their environment
“Fungi play a crucial role in many ecosystems.”
density word
the degree of compactness of a substance
“The density of fungi networks varies in different environments.”