Changing climatic conditions will affect monthly dynamics of soil biomass of L. vinosus

What is it about?

Here, we have quantified the soil mycelia from 28 long-term experimental plots during 12 months, to study the monthly dynamics of the extrarradical biomass of Lactarius vinosus, an edible, highly productive fungal species. In addition, we used soil sensors to measure soil volumetric water content and temperature, to study whether there is a correlation between soil mycelia and soil moisture and temperature. Finally, using this climate data we modelized soil mycelia by simulating changes in soil moisture and temperature, and predict whether future climate changes may affect the soil mycelia of this edible species. Soil mycelia was affected by changes in soil moisture and temperature, with the highest mycelia found under higher soil moisture and temperature. Summer drought and winter conditions were negatively affecting soil mycelia. Simulated soil mycelia suggest increases in soil mycelia biomass during winter-spring months but a decrease during summer months.

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Why is it important?

Is important because these results suggest potential shifts and changes in soil mycelia biomass in a context of climate change. It is interesting to think whether increases in soil mycelia biomass during spring will compensate for the decreases during summer months. An open question is how these changes will affect fungal production of L. vinosus.

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