Evolution: prehistoric fungus could explain the end of coal formation

Topic:Prehistoric fungi

A fungus that decomposes wood and which appeared nearly 300 million years ago might offer a partial explanation as to why vegetation-based coal formation stopped during this same period. This is one of the conclusions of a study by researchers from INRA, CNRS and the Universities of Lorraine and Aix-Marseille as part of an international consortium. The study provides insight into the wood degradation process by modern fungi, which could be of particular interest to the biofuels industry. The results were published in the 29 June 2012 issue of Science.

Diagnosis – research resources