Episode 5: Why are Plant-Fungi Interactions Important?
Plant-fungi interactions are important because without them there would be limited food. The studies are clear that at least 90% of plants use mycorrhizal fungi to produce fruit and vegetables. A mycorrihzal fungi is a fungus that forms a symbiotic relationship with a plant where the tree exchanges glucose from photosynthesis with mineral nutrients (like phosphorus) that the fungi can provide. Especially in winter when trees see less and less sunlight they need those mutualistic relationships to acquire nutrients. Trees and saplings can use mycelium to absorb and exchange nutrients. Plants and fungi can also exchange chemical processes to communicate with each other. Listen to the whole episode to learn more about why plant-fungi interactions are important.
Hello my scientists, I'm Kaitlyn Kuehn a plant biologist with a thirst for mycology. Today we talk about the top 7 reasons why plant-fungi interactions are important with guest Randall Simonson.
Plant metabolism: Photosynthesis, Protein Synthesis, Lipids, Induced Systemic resistance
Biodiversity: Soil fungi act like a support network
Practical Advancements: MycoApply, BioOrganics
Mediate Climate Change: Plants and fungi could slow climate change
Nutrient exchange
Understanding interactions related to AI and neural connections with Randall Simonson
Mycorrhizations
As well as flora funga facts, juicy news, quote a scientist, and this weeks book recommendation. Join me on this wild ride as we dive into episode 5.
Drank of the Week: Zingzang Bloody Mary
Juicy News: Microscopic partners could help plants survive stressful environments
Flora Funga Facts:
Root to tree ratio
Indian Pipe Plant
Quote a Scientist: State of the Worlds Plants and Fungi
" Trees are most effective + efficient at providing...mycorrhizae fungi." -Prof Stevenson
Book Recommendation: Mycorrhizal Planet
Other Resources:
Fantastic Fungi
Randall Simonson: rasimonson34@gmail.com
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Theme song :
-Soundotcom called Go Rock
-Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4458-take-the-lead
License: http://creativecommons.org/
