Research Keyword: hyphal networks

The pitfalls of ectomycorrhizal microcosms: lessons learnt for future success

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Researchers attempted to test whether fungal networks could guide plant roots through physical obstacles by growing pine seedlings with fungi in specialized maze chambers. While the fungi successfully colonized the roots 88% of the time, the roots grew unexpectedly large and the experimental apparatus failed, preventing them from testing their hypothesis. The study provides valuable lessons about what went wrong and recommendations to improve this type of experiment for future researchers studying how fungi and plants interact.

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Characterization of spatio-temporal dynamics of the constrained network of the filamentous fungus Podospora anserina using a geomatics-based approach

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Researchers studied how a fungus called Podospora anserina adapts its growth pattern when exposed to challenging conditions like nutrient scarcity, temperature changes, and bright light. Using a novel computer mapping technique borrowed from geography, they discovered that fungi don’t just grow slower under stress—they reorganize how densely they pack their filaments. This geomatics approach revealed that different stresses cause different patterns of network densification, providing new insights into fungal survival strategies.

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The Fungus Among Us: Innovations and Applications of Mycelium-Based Composites

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Mycelium-based composites are eco-friendly building materials made by growing mushroom fungus on agricultural waste like sawdust and straw. These materials are lightweight, provide excellent insulation and soundproofing, and are much more sustainable than synthetic alternatives. However, they absorb water easily and aren’t strong enough for load-bearing structures, making them best suited for insulation and non-structural panels.

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The influence of mycorrhizal hyphal connections and neighbouring plants on Plantago lanceolata physiology and nutrient uptake

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Fungi that live in soil form partnerships with plant roots and can extend underground networks connecting multiple plants. In this study, plants with access to expanded fungal networks captured more carbon through photosynthesis, accumulated more nutrients like phosphorus and zinc, and released more carbon into the soil. However, whether neighboring plants were present or what type they were did not significantly change these benefits, suggesting that soil exploration volume matters more than plant-to-plant connections through fungal networks.

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