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Review: roles of mycorrhizal symbioses and associated soil microbiomes in ecological restoration

Summary

This comprehensive review explains how underground fungal networks and soil microbes are essential for restoring damaged lands, particularly those contaminated by mining or pollution. The research shows that using native fungal communities from early successional stages, rather than introduced or late-stage species, significantly improves restoration success. Specific plant species like fescues work particularly well with these fungal partners, and combining different microbial species creates synergistic effects that boost plant growth and reduce contaminants in soil.

Background

Ecological restoration of degraded lands requires understanding of soil microbiome function and mycorrhizal symbioses. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) play crucial roles in ecosystem recovery by improving soil attributes, nutrient cycling, and plant establishment. Soil microbiomes serve as indicators of environmental health and pedogenesis evolution in anthropogenic degraded areas.

Objective

This review synthesizes current knowledge on the roles of mycorrhizal symbioses and soil microbiomes in ecological restoration across diverse ecosystems. The authors examine AMF and EMF efficiency, plant-fungi community interactions, and microbiome dynamics in mine restoration and metal-contaminated soils to establish comprehensive restoration protocols.

Results

Native early-seral AMF consortia are more effective than exotic late-seral species. Fine fescues, particularly Festuca rubra, demonstrate high resilience in restoration. AMF diversity increases with time post-restoration, correlating with plant succession. Dual mycorrhizal plants show context-dependent benefits, and specific microbial-AMF combinations produce synergistic effects on plant growth and soil resilience in contaminated soils.

Conclusion

Successful ecological restoration requires integrated approaches using native, early-successional mycorrhizal consortia matched to local conditions. Plant and AMF communities coevolve during restoration, with diversity and functionality improving ecosystem resilience. Standardized quality indicators and collaborative interdisciplinary approaches are essential for optimizing restoration outcomes across diverse degraded ecosystems.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 40771681, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1456041
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