Kinshasa’s 400 markets are an essential part of life for the estimated 10 million Congolese who live in the capital. The markets are also a major source of revenue for a host of players, including high ranking officials. Kristof Titeca and Albert Malukisa Nkuku explain how their research has lifted the lid on how the city’s markets are run, in particular how networks of patronage ensure profits are siphoned off to well-connected individuals.

Different species use a variety of approaches to the all-important business of reproduction. Fungi can utilise one or more of six different sexual strategies; some don’t need a partner to procreate and can do it alone. Andi Wilson explains the risks this method poses - not to the fungi, but to tree plantations and even humans.