Aquatic Fungi as Bioindicators of Freshwater Ecosystems

Aquatic fungi, especially aquatic hyphomycetes, are promising bioindicators for assessing the health and integrity of freshwater ecosystems. Their sensitivity to a wide range of environmental stressors, coupled with their essential roles in ecological processes such as organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling, establish them as important tools for monitoring ecological disturbances. By examining aquatic fungal responses at various biological levels—from molecular mechanisms to ecosystem dynamics—ecologists are able to uncover valuable information about the functioning of freshwater habitats. Despite challenges such as the complexity of fungal communities and knowledge gaps, the prospects for using aquatic fungi as bioindicators are encouraging. Advancing research and technological innovations are expected to refine our understanding of the ecological roles of aquatic fungi and enhance their use in detecting impacts on freshwater ecosystems. The inclusion of these organisms in environmental monitoring programmes alongside other bioindicators could significantly improve our ability to detect and mitigate the effects of both natural and anthropogenic environmental changes, leading to more effective conservation strategies. © 2024 by the authors.