One of the pathogens that we have been able to keep a bit ahead of, at least as compared to bacteria, are the fungi. In general human beings are not often harassed by members of this kingdom, unless we suffer from immune compromise. Then they are killers.Amphibians and plants have not been so fortunate. The current world-wide die-off of frogs and related animals and the continuous battle we fight on behalf of our crops are a result of fungal invasions...relentless and intractable.
Part of the reason for fungal power is their role as a decomposer--they eat trash, literally. And if that trash is wet, all the better. They are also great at killing their microbial competitors--penicillin came from a fungus as have other antibacterial agents.
Some fungi are good--lovers of stinky cheese and mushrooms (like me) appreciate them in their proper place.
But watch out--fungi can turn on us in a New York minute if it is to their survival advantage.
Just ask the poor peepers.
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