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Why do fungi form cystals?

Publication at Faculty of Science |
2012

Abstract

Fungi form crystals of a variety of inorganic and organic compounds on their mycelium and fruit-bodies. Crystals are formed either, when fungal metabolites released into the surrounding environment react with compounds already present and crystallise, or when metabolites produced in sufficient quantities crystallise directly at optimal conditions.

Both examples were observed in nature and in laboratory conditions and show the wide spectre of metabolites produced by fungi.