What is a common effect of fungi on plant health?

Fungi have a significant impact on plant health, and one common effect is plant decay. This occurs when fungi invade plant tissues, leading to the breakdown of cells and subsequent tissue decay. Many fungi are decomposers; they thrive on organic matter, breaking it down as part of their life cycle. In doing so, they can weaken a plant’s structure and health, resulting in wilting, stunted growth, or even death of the plant if the infestation is severe.

While some fungi have beneficial interactions with plants, such as mycorrhizal fungi that enhance nutrient uptake and may promote overall plant health, the primary answer regarding the detrimental effects of fungi focuses on decay. This is particularly relevant in scenarios where pathogenic fungi cause diseases, leading to rotting and decay of plant tissues, which can severely compromise the plant's health and vitality.