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. 2015 May 15:7:plv050.
doi: 10.1093/aobpla/plv050.

Inter-plant communication through mycorrhizal networks mediates complex adaptive behaviour in plant communities

Monika A Gorzelak  1 , Amanda K Asay  1 , Brian J Pickles  1 , Suzanne W Simard  2
Affiliations

Inter-plant communication through mycorrhizal networks mediates complex adaptive behaviour in plant communities

Monika A Gorzelak et al. AoB Plants. .

Abstract

Adaptive behaviour of plants, including rapid changes in physiology, gene regulation and defence response, can be altered when linked to neighbouring plants by a mycorrhizal network (MN). Mechanisms underlying the behavioural changes include mycorrhizal fungal colonization by the MN or interplant communication via transfer of nutrients, defence signals or allelochemicals. We focus this review on our new findings in ectomycorrhizal ecosystems, and also review recent advances in arbuscular mycorrhizal systems. We have found that the behavioural changes in ectomycorrhizal plants depend on environmental cues, the identity of the plant neighbour and the characteristics of the MN. The hierarchical integration of this phenomenon with other biological networks at broader scales in forest ecosystems, and the consequences we have observed when it is interrupted, indicate that underground 'tree talk' is a foundational process in the complex adaptive nature of forest ecosystems.

Keywords: Complex adaptive systems; ectomycorrhiza; forests; mycorrhizal networks; plant behaviour; plant communication.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Schematic of resources and signals documented to travel through an MN, as well as some of the stimuli that elicit transfer of these molecules in donor and receiver plants.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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