Can trees talk to each other with fungal networks? Study raises doubts

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Science has shown that CMNs exist, but the researchers say there is not enough evidence to show that these networks are suitable for trees and their seedlings.

One of the claims that CMNs are common in forests was not backed up by enough scientific evidence.

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A review of 26 studies found that while trees can move resources underground, CMNs only sometimes facilitate that flow, and seedlings often don't benefit from CMN access.

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Can trees talk to each other with fungal networks? Study raises doubts

BY CHRISTOPHER McFADDEN

SCIENCE

SCIENCE

In a new study, researchers challenge three commonly held beliefs about the abilities of underground fungi called (CMNs) that connect the roots of different plants.

Science has shown that CMNs exist, but the researchers say there is not enough evidence to show that these networks are suitable for trees and their seedlings.

SCIENCE

One of the claims that CMNs are common in forests was not backed up by enough scientific evidence.

SCIENCE

SCIENCE

Dr. Jenna Crowe-Riddell

Older trees use CMNs to give seedlings resources like nutrients and that this helps them survive and grow was also not evident from previous studies.

A review of 26 studies found that while trees can move resources underground, CMNs only sometimes facilitate that flow, and seedlings often don't benefit from CMN access.

SCIENCE

SCIENCE

Overall, their analysis showed that there was almost as much evidence that connecting to a CMN would help or hurt seedlings as there was that it would have no effect.

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Researchers say that exaggerated information can change and distort how people talk about CMNs, which could affect how forests are managed.

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More in the article.

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