Break it down Most fungi are passive decomposers and absorb nutrients from decaying matter. Yet some species are more aggressive, trapping and eating live organisms like nematodes and single-celled protozoa. Digestion network Mushrooms secrete enzymes that break down organic material while taking in nutrients. Fungal hyphae function as a network to digest and absorb nutrients from the surrounding environment. It’s tough out there Carnivorous fungi evolved to adapt to nutrient-poor environments. For example, fungi need nitrogen to produce proteins and survive. When there’s not enough nitrogen in the soil, fungi start to capture other organisms for their nutrients. This way, the fungi can thrive in otherwise inhospitable conditions. How do they “hunt”? Carnivorous fungi still use their hyphae, but instead of seeking decaying organic matter, these fungi wrap their hyphae around live prey and penetrate the victim to inject enzymes that break down the meal. From inside out Endoparasitism is when a fungus creates spores that infect a host organism through ingestion or bodily contact. The spores germinate within the body and develop hyphae, which spread throughout the host while consuming its internal tissues. The fungi keep the host alive long enough to produce more spores and restart the cycle. Types of carnivorous fungi There are over 200 carnivorous fungi species! Cordyceps militaris mushrooms are known parasitic predators for caterpillars, ants, spiders, and locusts. Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are a popular gourmet choice for many shroomers. While they typically thrive on decaying wood, oyster mushrooms won’t turn down a nematode…