The structure of legume-rhizobium interaction networks and their response to tree invasions.

ABSTRACT: Establishing mutualistic interactions in novel environments is important for the successful establishment of some non-native plant species. These associations may, in turn, impact native species interaction networks as non-natives become dominant in their new environments. Using phylogenetic and ecological interaction network approaches we provide the first report of the structure of belowground legume-rhizobium interaction networks and how they change along a gradient of invasion (uninvaded, semi invaded and heavily invaded sites) by Australian Acacia species in South Africa's Cape Floristic Region. We found that native and invasive legumes interact with distinct rhizobial lineages, most likely due to phylogenetic uniqueness of native and invasive host plants. Moreover, legume-rhizobium i

SUBMITTER: Le Roux JJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4940501 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature