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Updated: Oct 15, 2026

Investigation of Plant Interactions Across Common Mycorrhizal Networks Using Rotated Cores
Published on: March 26, 2019
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Collembola and plant growth
Abstract:
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are ubiquitous in field soils, as are mycophagous animals such as Collembola. It has been suggested that these animals reduce the functioning of the mycorrhiza and are thus detrimental to plant growth. However, recent choice experiments suggest that Collembola preferentially feed on nonmycorrhizal fungi in the rhizosphere. If these preferences also occur in field soils, then Collembola might indirectly benefit plants through an enhancement of mycorrhizal functioning and indirect multitrophic links to foliar-feeding insect herbivores.
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