A simplified food chain and its corresponding food web are shown here. These species are commonly found in deciduous forests of the Southeastern United States. A homeowner in South Carolina, whose house and yard are adjacent to native tree stands, applies a fungicide to the area of his yard and the surrounding area. The fungicide kills fungi and prevents their reproduction. His neighbor advises against this practice and states that the yard and his garden will perform better without the fungicide. Defend the neighbor's statement with accurate justification.