Growth Loops

Biological Parallel

Mycelial networks create autocatalytic growth loops: each new hyphal tip releases enzymes that break down organic matter, providing nutrients that fuel the growth of more hyphal tips, which decompose more matter. This positive feedback loop allows a single fungal individual—the Pando aspen clone or Armillaria honey fungus—to become the largest organism on Earth. Growth loops compound: linear growth adds, but looped growth multiplies.