A network of branched, thread-like hyphae constitutes the root-like framework of a fungus known as a mycelium (plural mycelia). Mycelium-based fungi can be found in and around soil and many other substrates.
Mycelium comes in two varieties:
Septate: A mycelium with distinct cells separated from one another throughout its length by cell walls carried down at regular intervals. These cell walls are termed septa (the singular form is septum).
Coenocytic: A mycelium forming a persistent tubular network without septa for division. However, septa are occasionally seen in areas with reproductive structures and damaged mycelium cell walls.
It has been suggested that mycelial mats could be used as biological filters to purge contaminants and microbes from water and soil. This process of using fungus mycelium is known as mycofiltration.
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