How do soil fungal networks modify resilience of grasslands to drought and insect pests?
Supervisors:
David Johnson, Lancaster University
Barbara Mable, School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, Univeristy of Glasgow
Summary:
A fascinating feature of root-associated mycorrhizal fungi is their ability to colonise multiple individual plants simultaneously forming “common mycorrhizal networks”. These networks are crucial for acquisition and distribution of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and water, and in regulating defence against insect herbivores. However, our knowledge of the extent and function of fungal networks in nature, and their role in providing resilience for plant communities against external pressure such as drought and herbivory are poorly resolved. Therefore, the overarching aim of this project is to understand the extent, ubiquity and function of common mycorrhizal networks in grazed grasslands, and how they influence plant-herbivore pest interactions and resilience against drought.
The student will establish a series of field experiments where the formation of common mycorrhizal networks is manipulated, and impose additional treatments comprising insect herbivory and drought. This interdisciplinary project will provide training and experience in several cutting-edge techniques and disciplines including molecular biology, isotope tracers, soil biochemistry, animal, plant and fungal ecology. The project will generate new understanding of how grazed grasslands function, and will open-up opportunities for careers in academia, conservation agencies and agri-food sectors.