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Trichoderma Species Occurring on Wood with Decay Symptoms in Mountain Forests in Central Europe: Genetic and Enzymatic Characterization

Summary

This research examined different species of Trichoderma fungi found in decaying wood from mountain forests in Central Europe and their ability to break down plant material. The study reveals how these fungi contribute to natural wood decomposition processes in forest ecosystems. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps understand natural wood decay processes in forests • Identifies fungi that could be used in industrial enzyme production • Contributes to forest management and conservation strategies • Provides insights for developing eco-friendly wood degradation processes • Advances our knowledge of biodiversity in mountain forest ecosystems

Background

Species of the ascomycete genus Trichoderma are commonly found in many ecosystems, with soil being their most natural habitat. While some Trichoderma species are known to contribute to plant debris and wood degradation, their role in wood decay processes and their enzymatic capabilities are not fully understood.

Objective

To explore the species diversity of Trichoderma obtained from decaying wood samples collected in the forests of the Gorce Mountains, Karkonosze Mountains and Tatra Mountains in Central Europe, and to examine the cellulolytic and xylanolytic activity of these species as an expression of their probable role in wood decay processes.

Results

Twelve Trichoderma species and species complexes were identified: T. atroviride, T. citrinoviride, T. cremeum, T. gamsii, T. harzianum complex, T. koningii, T. koningiopsis, T. longibrachiatum, T. longipile, Trichoderma sp., T. viride and T. viridescens complex. T. viride was the most abundant species (53% of all isolates) across all locations. The highest species diversity was found in the Gorce Mountains. All strains showed cellulolytic and xylanolytic activity, with significant variations between species and between isolates of the same species.

Conclusion

The study revealed the real potential of all identified Trichoderma species from decaying wood to produce cellulases and xylanases, indicating their capability for saprotrophic nutrition. The findings contribute to understanding the ecological roles of different Trichoderma species in wood decay processes.
  • Published in:Journal of Applied Genetics,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1007/s13353-015-0326-1
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