Fungi Intelligence: Study Reveals Their Memories, Shape Learning, and Problem-Solving Skills

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Can an organism without a brain show signs of intelligence? The answer, as it turns out, is a resounding yes. In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Tohoku University have delved into the cognitive abilities of fungi, uncovering a world of memory, learning, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. This revelation challenges our preconceived notions of intelligence in life forms without brains.

Fungi, known as the 'circulatory system of the planet' and consisting of a distinct biological kingdom, stand out with their unique characteristics that share more similarities with animals than plants. Their growth, initiated by the release of spores, leads to the formation of extensive underground mycelium. These networks, which can span vast areas, facilitate communication in a manner akin to neural connections in brains. The observation of electrical signals, similar to human vocabulary, along these networks is an incredible discovery. 

Fungal mycelial networks connecting wood blocks arranged in circle (left) and cross (right) shapes.Photo by©Yu Fukasawa et al.

The study the researchers recently published showed how fungi, mainly through their mycelial networks, respond to different environmental configurations. Researchers examined how a wood-decaying mycelial network responded to two situations: one where the decaying wood blocks were placed in a circle and another where the wood blocks formed an 'X.' The researchers found that fungi exhibited different colonization patterns based on these arrangements. In the 'X' setup, the outermost blocks saw greater colonization, likely because they served as foraging outposts. At the same time, the circle arrangement showed uniform colonization without extending into the center, indicating an impressively energy-efficient growth strategy of these organisms.

If the fungi didn't display decision-making skills, they would spread out from a central point without consideration for the position of the blocks. Remarkably, this is different from what the researchers witnessed. The findings suggest that the mycelial network could communicate information about its surroundings throughout the entire network and change its direction of growth accordingly based on any particular shape.

Our comprehension of the mysterious world of fungi is limited, especially compared to our knowledge of plants and animals. However, the study results, published in Fungal Ecology in September of 2024, have significantly expanded our understanding of these organisms, with researchers eager to continue exploring fungal cognition, communication, and ecological roles, ultimately unraveling the complex interactions that sustain our ecosystems.