Full Explanation

Sentence Structure & Logic

The sentence sets up a contrast:

First part: A consensus has been building-mycologists generally agree that fungal networks communicate distress signals between trees.
Second part: The claim itself is no longer contested (so nobody disputes it anymore).
Key contrast: What is striking is how rarely a researcher with sufficient standing has actually ______ the idea in print.


The word "rarely" tells us that the action in the blank is something that should have happened more often but hasn't. Since the idea is already accepted, the missing action must be publicly advocating for or supporting it-not disputing it.

Championed = actively supported, advocated for, or defended a cause or idea.
If a respected researcher "champions" an idea in print, they use their authority to promote and legitimize it.


The sentence says: even though everyone agrees the idea is true, very few influential researchers have actually publicly advocated for it in writing. This is the striking fact.

Why the Others Are Incorrect

A. disputed - Means argued against. But the sentence says the claim is "no longer contested," meaning nobody disputes it anymore. This directly contradicts the logic.
C. minimized - Means downplayed or made to seem less important. If the consensus is building, researchers wouldn't be minimizing the idea.
D. anticipated - Means predicted or foresaw. While some researchers might have anticipated the idea, the sentence is about advocating for it in print after the consensus formed-not predicting it beforehand.
E. concealed - Means hidden or kept secret. If the idea is openly discussed and no longer contested, concealing it makes no sense.