Aves and Fungi interactions in a review of mycophagy and its associations in wildlife and industry

Abstract

Fungi and Aves are present in all ecosystems and interact with a variety of organisms. The purpose of this study was to compile and analyze in the literature the mycophagy and association of birds with fungi to evaluate the aspects of interaction habits and habitat in natural and industrial environments. In this study, 64 species of wild birds were found with documented interactions involving fungi. However, only 32 had the consumed or used-for-nesting fungi species fully identified. In these cases, there is a correlation between the birds’ foraging habits and the habitats of fungi. According to the findings of this review study, birds’ foraging habits are closely linked to fungi habitats in relation the interactions between the groups. Also, the poultry industry is increasingly using mushrooms as a nutritional supplement due to their benefits. Despite the limited knowledge about the nutritional benefits of these associations in the wild, results from the industry indicate that the benefits would be similar.