Diversity of Ericoid Mycorrhizal Fungi and its Significance in Plant Nitrogen Acquisition in the Arctic

Kansas State University, Manhattan KS

Investigators

Abstract

Jumpponen 0221489 Biological diversity and its function are focal areas in ecology, and the relationship between plant diversity and ecosystem function has been intensively studied. By contrast, few studies have addressed the role of mycorrhizal fungi and their diversity even though they are presumed to be critical in plant nutrient uptake and nutrient retention. This grant focuses attention on differential nitrogen (N) use among symbiotic fungi in the roots of ericaceous dwarf shrubs in the arctic. The researchers will address the role of diverse fungi in plants ability to access organic and inorganic N sources. Ericoid mycorrhizal (ERM) symbiosis may be the key to the abundance of ericaceous shrubs in arctic ecosystems as their fungal symbionts likely utilize organic N sources thus facilitating plant organic N uptake. Knowledge of ERM diversity and its function is a necessary foundation for understanding arctic and boreal ecosystem processes. This knowledge is especially crucial in arctic ecosystems where supply of inorganic N is low and plant N limitation is strong.