Abstract
Advanced chemical techniques will be used to expand the understanding of the impact and significance of molecular-scale processes, such as biochemically induced weathering caused by exudates from bacteria-fungi-tree interactions, on macro-scale processes, such as nutrient cycling in forest soils and tree growth. Bacteria that enhance mycorrhiza formation and protect the mycorrhiza from phytopathogen attacks are commonly called ?mycorrhiza helper bacteria? (MHB). The selection criteria of the bacterial strains that will be used for the experiments will include their ability to mobilize important nutrients from solution and minerals, promote mycorrhizae formation and plant growth, and produce extraordinarily strong complex formers that can promote mineral dissolution as part of bacteria-fungi-tree symbiosis. An increased knowledge regarding the production of important ligands from MHB-fungi-tree interactions, as well as this interaction?s effect on nutrient cycling in forest soils, will lead to increased knowledge concerning how this often overlooked triple-interaction could benefit sustainable, environmentally-friendly forest-ecosystem development.
Sweden