Scientists have launched a global effort to map the hidden fungal networks beneath the world's forests, aiming to improve reforestation success. The project, led by the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (Spun) and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, focuses on mycorrhizal fungi that form symbiotic relationships with tree roots, exchanging nutrients and boosting plant growth by up to 64%.
In the UK, researchers are studying ancient hazelwoods on the Hebridean island of Seil, remnants of woodlands that have existed since around 7,500 BC. These temperate rainforests, which cover less than 1% of Britain, are a priority for government restoration plans. However, the subterranean fungal communities remain poorly understood, with about three-quarters of fungi classified as 'dark taxa' known only from DNA.
Over the next two years, scientists will document soil fungi at over 20 sites across Britain's temperate rainforest zones to create the first comprehensive map of mycorrhizal communities. This initiative is part of a broader global mapping project to understand the forgotten subterranean half of forests.
Research from Leeds University suggests the UK and Ireland have a unique opportunity to become global leaders in temperate rainforest restoration, as they possess large expanses of unforested, rainy land suitable for reforestation. However, success depends on restoring healthy fungal networks, which have seen significant declines across Europe.
