Tuesday, October 24, 2023

 

Fungi and Trees: Unraveling the Mystery of a Vital Relationship




 

In Corsica, a team of mycologists led by Toby Kiers is embarking on a groundbreaking research project to study the relationship between fungi and old-growth trees in the face of climate change. As temperatures rise and wildfires become more frequent, understanding how fungi help these trees adapt and survive is crucial.

Fungi, the true body of these organisms, consist of hair-like threads called hyphae, collectively known as mycelium. These hyphae serve as the transport system, shuttling nutrients across the forest floor. By digesting dead matter and recycling it into the soil, fungi contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem.

The team’s primary goal is to uncover how fungi support the ancient chestnut trees in the face of climatic extremes. By analyzing the DNA and RNA of the fungi found around the trees, they hope to determine their specific functions. Are they decomposing leaf litter, absorbing water, or transporting essential nutrients? Understanding these mechanisms could provide insights into making other trees more resilient.

However, studying fungi is no easy task. Over 90% of fungal species are yet to be discovered, despite mycologists identifying approximately 2,500 new ones each year. Collecting fungal DNA and RNA from wild soil presents additional challenges due to contamination from various organisms. Extracting delicate soil RNA requires precision and quick action to preserve its integrity.

The team meticulously collects soil samples from the forest floor, encasing them in vials on dry ice to preserve the RNA. These vials are then flown to the mainland, where further analysis will take place in the lab. By comparing the RNA with the genomes of known fungi, the team hopes to decipher the intricate relationship between fungi and trees.

This groundbreaking research has the potential to shed light on the importance of fungal health for the survival of forests and ultimately, our collective survival. By understanding how fungi support trees in the face of climate change, scientists can work towards developing strategies to protect and conserve these vital ecosystems.

Sources:
– The Atlantic:
– Image Source: Quentin van den Bossche

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