The Underground Highway for Trees’ Survival
March 11, 2025
For the past half century, evidence has been accumulating that trees are not just static plants that are left to fend for themselves. On the contrary, trees are dynamic organisms that communicate and exchange resources through a dynamic underground system that is linked to their survival. An underground communication system? Sounds a bit like science fiction — but isn’t! This post will aim to delve into how trees exchange vital nutrients and send stress signals through fungal networks.
How Trees and Fungi Thrive Together
You may have heard of symbiotic relationships in classic biology. They are, put simply, relationships between organisms that depend on each other. One organism lives off the other (receives benefits out of the relationship) whilst the other can also profit from (or at least isn’t harmed by) its presence.
A mycorrhizal network is such a symbiosis. Mycelium, a type of threaded, branch-like fungi, forms a symbiosis with trees in an ecosystem. They ‘bind’ to the roots of trees and work almost as ‘extensions’ to tree roots: they connect to other trees and flora in the ecosystem (Fig. 1). This forms the network I talked about earlier, that allows for transport of minerals and nutrients.
These fungal networks are mostly thought to be mutualistic, even though some species can engage in parasitism. Mycorrhizal networks get very complex and there are many different combinations of plant and fungus species that can further contribute to this complexity.
So, mycorrhizal networks connect trees to other organisms in the ecosystem, thus allowing for transport of water and important minerals such as nitrogen N, carbon C and phosphorus P.
But in a symbiosis the relationship doesn’t go just one way — So what is the mycelium getting out of this?
Interaction between these two species occurs with the goal of exchanging photsynthates and minerals from the soil. Something you will hear people talk about is that ‘plants make energy out of sunlight’. This is true, and as you might know this process is called photosynthesis and is described by the following chemical equation:
6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
In short, plants use water and carbon dioxide (which is what we breathe out) with activation energy from the sun in form of sunlight to make sugar (glucose) which can be considered as ‘energy storage’.
You will be happy to hear that this plays a significant part in the relationship between mycelium and trees. As living things need carbohydrates to store energy and thus to survive, so does the mycelium. This thus fosters a significant relationship between tree and fungus which uses the currency of photosynthates (glucose C6H12O6) and minerals (such as P, C, N and H2O) from the soil.
Types of Mycorrhizal Networks
You should know now, that mycorrhizal networks connect trees to each other and are an exchange highway for sugars and minerals. But in reality, there isn’t just one type of mycelium present in this network. We divide into two major kinds of mycorrhizal fungi based on their hyphae:
Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF)
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)
Of which the latter is more commonly present in the root tips of trees and plant species. The two types differ mainly in their colonization strategies. This means that EMF build a ‘layer’ (a sheath) around the root cells whereas the AMF penetrate the root cell, forming vesicles and arbuscules inside of the tree root cells (Fig. 3).
But what on earth does this have to do with the chemistry/biology we’re so interested in? What kinds of biochemical interactions occur at the root tips where these magnificent networks meet?
Biochemical Interactions Between Fungi and Plants
Earlier we looked at the role photosynthesis plays in the symbiotic relationship between tree and fungus.
6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
However, what happens if plants have to undergo an arid summer or a dry season, which contributes to a scarce pool of reactants and hinders the fundamental reaction that plants need to survive?
This is where the mycorrhizae come in. They extract nutrients from the soil, which are absorbed by plant root cells. Without the mycorrhiza, plant root cells’ nutrient uptake pathways are much less effective or efficient. This is partly due to the fact that mycorrhiza like ectomycorrhizal fungi can store nutrients in their sheaths. Meaning that even if the soil around them is partly depleted of nutrients, the fungus can keep on fostering the symbiosis.
Nutrients such as C, P and N are transported in the hyphae. A collection of filamentous hyphae, called extraradical mycelium (think of it simply as the hyphae deriving from the fungi: the outer environment), transport nutrients from the soil to the hartig net (Fig. 3). For the sake of simplification, let’s look exclusively at the nutrient nitrogen N in the next section:
Rajarshi Rit, Wikimedia Commons. CC BY-SA 4.0. No changes made
However, nutrients typically don’t just swim around in the soil in their elementary form. As far as it goes for arbuscular mycorrhiza (AMF), it can ‘absorb’ nitrogen N from the soil either inorganically or organically: absorbing inorganic nitrate (NO3−) and ammonium (NH4+) or organic amino acids (composed of 1 NH2 group), respectively. Think of these molecules as simply being ‘nitrogen carriers’. Their chemical form allows nitrogen to be picked up by the mycorrhizal fungi.
As mentioned, the extraradical mycelium is where these molecules are transported. Here, the N form that has been absorbed is converted to Arginine (an amino acid) and transported to the intraradical mycelium. This is the inner part of the fungus that is inside the root cell. Here, Arginine is broken down into NH4+ and transferred to the host plant. Fig. 4 illustrates this.
A similar process happens with phosphorus P forms. These are also taken in by the extraradical mycelium and stored as polyphosphates (polyP). A polyphosphate is a molecule with multiple phosphate PO43− molecules linked together. Think of it as a molecule that stores phosphorus P. This polyphosphate is then broken down to arginine and phosphorus, making nutrients available to the plant.
Interestingly enough, because of the rapid intake of nutrients by the mycorrhizal fungi, a depletion zone is created. This prompts the fungus to grow further and expand its roots farther into the soil to take in nutrients. As time passes, mycorrhizal networks expand throughout the entire forest ground.
Impact on Agriculture
The world of mycorrhizal fungi is a whole universe by itself. But did you know that they have a considerable use in agriculture?
Many fertilizers use phosphate as an important nutrient for plants. Many of them are thus phosphate-based and the extraction of phosphate makes up an important part of the agricultural sector. Unfortunately, phosphate is a non-renewable resource, meaning that it cannot sustain the fertilizer industry forever. However, as we have seen, mycorrhizal fungi are extremely efficient at making phosphate available as a nutrient for plants. They thus pose a significant alternative to these fertilizers and it could be probable that they’ll soon start appearing commercially.
Final Thoughts
Now you have an overview of the dynamic workings of plants. Next time you take a walk in the forest you’ll know what is happening under your feet. I will remind you that the relationships and mycorrhizal species explored today are merely the tip of the iceberg. There is an infinitely big number of combinations between plant and fungus and far more complex nutrient transport mechanisms than what I talked about today. Our planet is infinitely complex and it takes a huge effort for us humans to understand it with our primitive tools!
This text provides a fascinating insight into the intricate symbiotic relationships between plants and fungi. The mycorrhizal networks play a crucial role in nutrient exchange, benefiting both organisms. It’s intriguing how these networks can adapt to different environmental conditions, such as dry seasons. The chemical equation of photosynthesis highlights the essential process of energy production in plants. How do these networks ensure survival during extreme environmental stress?
The text is in English, so I’ll respond in English:
I found this explanation of symbiotic relationships and mycorrhizal networks fascinating. It’s incredible how interconnected ecosystems are, and how plants and fungi rely on each other for survival. The idea that these networks act as exchange highways for sugars and minerals is mind-blowing. I’ve heard about photosynthesis before, but I never thought about how it directly impacts these underground networks. The part about different species of fungi creating complex interactions really got me thinking—how do these relationships evolve over time? I’m curious, though, what happens to these networks during extreme weather conditions, like droughts or floods? It seems like such a delicate balance could easily be disrupted. Do you think human activity, like deforestation or pollution, could permanently damage these systems? I’d love to hear more about how we can protect or even replicate these natural processes in sustainable agriculture. What are your thoughts on this?
It is indeed very fascinating. Deforestation can be quite a hazard for ecosystems, which includes mycorrhizal networks. These networks typically aid trees/plants, for example, the ectomycorrhizal fungus Cenococcum geophilum improves water uptake and retention in hosts. Of course if we keep on polluting the planet and cutting down forests, these fungi will find less hosts and may need to find new ways of surviving: or die. Perhaps mycorrhizal fungi will be able to become independent of their hosts. I suppose that, even if trees disappear and the climate undergoes significant changes, the networks themselves aren’t necessarily at risk: they might just evolve over time. As for the replication of these natural processes, research is increasingly being done on these systems as they have potential to play an important role in agriculture. An example of this are “mycoponics” which are controlled environments used to study plant-fungal symbiosis.
The concept of symbiotic relationships, especially in the context of mycorrhizal networks, is truly fascinating. It’s incredible how plants and fungi have evolved to depend on each other for survival, creating such intricate systems of exchange. The idea that these networks act as highways for nutrients like sugars and minerals highlights the complexity of nature’s design. I’m particularly intrigued by the biochemical interactions at the root tips—how exactly do these processes work on a molecular level? Also, the mention of how plants might adapt during arid conditions raises questions about the resilience of these networks. Do fungi play a role in helping plants survive droughts, or does the relationship become strained? It’s amazing how much there is to learn about these hidden connections beneath our feet. What do you think happens to these networks in extreme environmental conditions?
The symbiotic relationship between plants and fungi is truly fascinating. It’s incredible how these interactions form such intricate networks that benefit both parties. The complexity of mycorrhizal networks shows how interconnected nature really is. I wonder how these relationships evolved over time to become so efficient. What happens to these networks during extreme environmental conditions, like droughts? It’s amazing to think that plants and fungi have developed such a sophisticated way of exchanging resources. Do you think human intervention could ever mimic or enhance these natural processes? Let’s dive deeper into the biochemical interactions at the root tips—what exactly is happening there?
The concept of symbiotic relationships, especially in the context of mycorrhizal networks, is truly fascinating. It’s incredible how plants and fungi have evolved to support each other in such intricate ways. The exchange of sugars and minerals through these networks highlights the complexity of nature’s interconnected systems. I wonder, though, how these relationships adapt during extreme conditions like droughts or arid seasons. Does the balance shift, or do the fungi play a more protective role? The chemical equation of photosynthesis is a great reminder of how fundamental this process is, but I’m curious about the biochemical specifics at the root tips. How do these interactions ensure survival when resources are scarce? This makes me think about how human activities might disrupt these delicate systems. What are your thoughts on the impact of environmental changes on these networks?
This text provides a fascinating insight into the intricate symbiotic relationships between plants and fungi, particularly through mycorrhizal networks. It’s intriguing how these networks act as exchange highways for sugars and minerals, benefiting both organisms. The explanation of photosynthesis and its role in this relationship is clear, but I wonder how these networks adapt during extreme conditions like droughts. Are there specific mechanisms that allow fungi to support plants when water is scarce? The complexity of these interactions raises questions about how climate change might impact these relationships. Could disruptions in mycorrhizal networks affect entire ecosystems? I’d love to hear more about the biochemical processes at the root tips—what exactly happens there? This topic is so rich, and it makes me appreciate the hidden connections in nature even more. What are your thoughts on the potential applications of this knowledge in agriculture or environmental conservation?
The symbiotic relationship between plants and fungi is truly fascinating. It’s incredible how these networks allow for such efficient exchange of nutrients and resources. I never realized how complex mycorrhizal networks could be, with so many different species interacting. The idea that plants and fungi depend on each other in such a balanced way is mind-blowing. I wonder how these relationships evolved over time to become so intricate. What would happen if one species in this relationship were to disappear? Do you think human activities, like deforestation, could disrupt these networks? I’d love to hear more about how these interactions are studied in the field.
The concept of symbiotic relationships, especially in the context of mycorrhizal networks, is fascinating. The idea that plants and fungi exchange essential nutrients like sugars and minerals through these networks highlights the complexity of nature. I find it intriguing how these interactions are not just one-sided but mutually beneficial. The detailed explanation of photosynthesis and its role in this symbiosis adds another layer of understanding. However, I wonder how these networks adapt to extreme conditions like arid summers or dry seasons. How do the plants and fungi manage to maintain this delicate balance when resources are scarce? It would be interesting to explore the resilience of these networks in harsh environments. Can you elaborate on how these symbiotic relationships evolve under stress or adverse conditions?
Symbiotic relationships in nature are truly fascinating, especially when it comes to mycorrhizal networks. The idea that plants and fungi can exchange nutrients so efficiently is mind-blowing. I’ve always wondered how these networks manage to thrive in such complex ecosystems. The chemical equation for photosynthesis is a great reminder of how interconnected life is. But what happens to these networks during extreme conditions like droughts? Do the fungi adapt, or does the relationship break down? I’d love to hear more about how these networks recover after such stress. What’s your take on the resilience of these symbiotic systems?
This is fascinating! The concept of symbiotic relationships between plants and fungi is such a beautiful example of nature’s interconnectedness. I find it intriguing how mycorrhizal networks act as a highway for exchanging sugars and minerals, benefiting both parties. The role of photosynthesis in this process is crucial, but how do these networks adapt during extreme conditions like drought? It makes me wonder if fungi have mechanisms to support plants during arid summers. Also, the idea that some fungi can switch from mutualism to parasitism adds another layer of complexity. What drives this shift, and how do plants respond? Lastly, how do different types of mycorrhizal fungi influence the resilience of these networks? I’d love to hear more about the biochemical interactions at the root tips—do they vary depending on environmental stress? Such a rich topic!
The symbiotic relationships between plants and fungi are truly fascinating. It’s incredible how mycorrhizal networks act as a communication and resource-sharing system for trees. The exchange of sugars and minerals through these networks highlights the interconnectedness of nature. I wonder how these relationships evolved over time to become so efficient. What happens to these networks during extreme environmental conditions, like droughts? It’s amazing to think that fungi play such a crucial role in the survival of plants. Do you think human intervention could enhance these natural systems for agricultural benefits? How do you see this knowledge being applied in sustainable farming practices?
This text is in English. Here’s a comment in English:
The concept of symbiotic relationships, especially in mycorrhizal networks, is fascinating. It’s incredible how plants and fungi have evolved to support each other in such intricate ways. The exchange of sugars and minerals through these networks highlights the complexity of nature’s interconnected systems. I’m curious, though, how do these relationships adapt during extreme conditions like droughts or arid seasons? Does the balance shift, or do both organisms find a way to sustain each other? The chemical equation of photosynthesis is a great reminder of how fundamental this process is to life. What other biochemical interactions are at play in these networks that we might not fully understand yet? This makes me wonder, could studying these relationships help us develop more sustainable agricultural practices? What’s your take on the potential applications of this knowledge?
The concept of symbiotic relationships in nature is truly fascinating, especially when it comes to the intricate networks between plants and fungi. It’s incredible how these organisms depend on each other for survival, exchanging essential nutrients like a well-oiled machine. The idea that plants can create energy from sunlight through photosynthesis is something we learn early on, but seeing it in the context of these complex ecosystems adds a whole new layer of understanding. The chemical equation provided makes it clear how this process works, but I can’t help but wonder—what happens to these networks during extreme conditions like drought? How do plants and fungi adapt when resources become scarce? It’s also intriguing to think about the different types of mycorrhizal fungi and how their structures impact these relationships. Do you think there’s a limit to how much these networks can support each other under stress? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this!
English is the language of the text.
This is such a fascinating exploration of symbiotic relationships, particularly the intricate connections between fungi and plants. It’s incredible to think about how mycorrhizal networks act as highways for exchanging sugars and minerals, almost like a natural internet for trees. The way photosynthesis ties into this system is brilliant—it’s not just about plants making energy but also about how that energy flows through an entire ecosystem. I’m curious, though, how do these networks adapt during harsh conditions like droughts? Does the symbiosis weaken, or do they find ways to sustain each other? I’d love to hear more about the evolutionary pressures that shaped this mutualistic relationship. Honestly, this makes me appreciate the complexity of nature even more—it’s a reminder of how interconnected life really is. What do you think is the most surprising aspect of this fungal-plant partnership? And could this knowledge be applied to improve agriculture or ecosystem restoration?