A Woodlot was Sprayed with a Fungicide

Question

A woodlot was sprayed with a fungicide. What would be the most serious effect of such spraying?
A) a decrease in food for animals that eat mushrooms
B) an increase in rates of wood decay
C) a decrease in tree growth due to the death of mycorrhizae
D) an increase in the number of decomposing bacteria
E) a decrease in food for animals that eat mushrooms, and an increase in rates of wood decay

Accepted Answer

Fungicides can kill mycorrhizae, which are essential for the uptake of nutrients by trees. A decrease in mycorrhizae can lead to a decrease in tree growth and overall forest health. The other options are possible effects, but not as serious as a decrease in tree growth.