The influence of tree genus, phylogeny, and richness on the specificity, rarity, and diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungi.

ABSTRACT: Partner specificity is a well-documented phenomenon in biotic interactions, yet the factors that determine specificity in plant-fungal associations remain largely unknown. By utilizing composite soil samples, we identified the predictors that drive partner specificity in both plants and fungi, with a particular focus on ectomycorrhizal associations. Fungal guilds exhibited significant differences in overall partner preference and avoidance, richness, and specificity to specific tree genera. The highest level of specificity was observed in root endophytic and ectomycorrhizal associations, while the lowest was found in arbuscular mycorrhizal associations. The majority of ectomycorrhizal fungal species showed a preference for one of their partner trees, primarily at the plant genus level. Spe

SUBMITTER: Tedersoo L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10994715 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature