This study examines how a fungus called Tulasnella responds to orchids before they physically touch each other. Researchers grew the fungus near young orchid plants separated by a thin membrane and found that the fungus changed its genes and chemistry significantly, suggesting it somehow detected the orchid’s presence. The fungus increased production of proteins and fats, as if preparing for a partnership with the plant. These findings help us understand how plants and fungi communicate and begin their beneficial relationships.