Which Statement Best Describes the Value of Fungi in the Environment

Question

Which statement best describes the value of fungi in the environment?  
A) Fungi "fix" nitrogen from the air for use by plants.
B) Fungi trap sunlight energy in the form of carbohydrates.
C) Fungi release nutrients from organic matter.
D) Fungi enrich the soil by decreasing the rate of decay of organic matter.
E) Fungi remove toxic metals from the soil.

Accepted Answer

Fungi play an important role in decomposition and breaking down organic matter, releasing nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon back into the environment. This process is called mineralization, which is essential for the growth and survival of many plants and other organisms in the environment.