Scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking global atlas that maps the intricate networks of underground fungi, revealing previously unknown biodiversity hotspots. This discovery sheds light on the hidden ecosystems thriving beneath our feet, emphasizing the importance of protecting these subterranean habitats. The study, conducted by the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks, was based on an expedition in Chile’s Alerce Costero National Park in 2022, where a rare species of Russula fungi was found. The findings suggest that these underground systems are vital for ecological balance and may hold untapped potential for scientific discovery and conservation.