Answer:When the spores of fungi land on an ideal substrate, they start to spread their hyphae in search of food sources (i.e., decaying organic matter).
Compared to other decomposers like bacteria, which can only break down the surface layer of their food source, hyphae can penetrate into deeper parts of harder materials such as wood.
The fungi then begin releasing enzymes that start the process of decomposition. This breaks down organic materials into their basic compounds.
In particular, certain types of mushrooms are the only living organisms that can break down lignin.
Lignin is a very tough substance that safeguards the cell wall of trees.
Step-by-step explanation: