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Over 1,000 Fungi Species Now on IUCN Red List

  • 31 Mar 2025

On 27th March 2025, IUCN announced that the number of fungi species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species has surpassed 1,000, highlighting the impact of deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development on their decline.

Key Points

  • Rising Threat Levels: The IUCN Red List now includes 1,300 fungi species, with at least 411 at risk of extinction.
  • Habitat Loss: Expansion of agriculture and urban areas has placed 279 species in danger.
  • Pollution Threats: Nitrogen and ammonia runoff from fertilizers and pollution affect 91 species, especially in Europe.
  • Deforestation Impact: Over 198 fungi species are at risk due to logging and forest clearing, particularly in Finland, Sweden, and Russia.
  • Climate Change Effects: Changing fire patterns in the US have placed 50 fungi species at risk.
  • Ecological Importance: Fungi play a crucial role in ecosystems by supporting plant life, aiding decomposition, and contributing to medicine and food production.
  • Conservation Efforts: Experts urge the protection of old-growth forests, sustainable forestry practices, and proactive fire management to safeguard fungi biodiversity.