INTERPLANT COMMUNICATION FACILITATED BY COMMON MYCORRHIZAL NETWORKS

Hoop, Sander de (2023) INTERPLANT COMMUNICATION FACILITATED BY COMMON MYCORRHIZAL NETWORKS. Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Most plants establish symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi in order to gather essential nutrients. Recently, mycorrhizal fungi have frequently been shown to interconnect plants by forming common mycorrhizal networks (CMN). One of the functions that CMNs can facilitate is the transfer of signals between plants. Several lab studies have shown interplant signal transfer via CMNs, but none have yet identified the nature of these signals. There is evidence that at least part of the signal is chemical in nature and electrical signals might also play a role. Opinion among researchers is divided on the question which partner, plant or fungus, is in control of the signal. Some point to evidence of kin selection in plants through CMNs and argue for a phytocentric view, while others take a mycocentric view and think that fungi mainly control the signals for their own gain. Not all experts are convinced that CMNs are ecologically significant. The criticisms raised by these researchers will have to be addressed by first identifying the signal that is sent between plants through CMNs. Promising approaches for identifying this signal include genetically engineering strains of fungi that are unable to synthesize certain compounds and measuring plant responses to electrical signals transmitted through CMNs. Once the signal is identified, it should be easier to design experiments that can better test the ecological significance of interplant signalling through CMNs.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Elzenga, J.T.M.
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	02 Aug 2023 10:02
Last Modified:	02 Aug 2023 10:02
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/30973

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