Diverse nitrogen acquisition strategies of conifer-associated ectomycorrhizal fungi shape unique responses to changing nitrogen regimes.

ABSTRACT: Ectomycorrhizal fungi are critical mediators of nitrogen acquisition in forest ecosystems, exhibiting variation in both host association and metabolic traits that mediate differential responses to forest nitrogen availability. However, how nitrogen acquisition strategies vary among closely related fungal species, how these patterns manifest in conifer-associated ECM fungi, and whether they persist over changing nitrogen regimes, remains poorly understood. Using an integrative approach combining in silico genomic analysis, in vitro growth assays, and isotopic analysis of in situ specimens spanning six decades, we provide the first comprehensive examination of nitrogen assimilation in congeneric conifer-associated ectomycorrhizal fungi using six Suillus species. W

SUBMITTER: Lofgren L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12501645 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature