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Mycorrhizal evolution.

D M. Wilkinson

    Trends in Ecology & Evolution
    |February 13, 2001
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    New fossil evidence reveals arbuscular mycorrhizae appeared 460 million years ago, predating plants. Fungal evolution shows repeated gains and losses of ectomycorrhizal symbiosis, highlighting the ancient origins of these crucial plant-fungal mutualisms.

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    Area of Science:

    • Paleomycology
    • Evolutionary Biology
    • Symbiotic Relationships

    Background:

    • Mycorrhizae, symbiotic associations between fungi and plants, are crucial for terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Understanding the evolutionary history of mycorrhizae provides insights into the colonization of land by plants.
    • Previous research has established the ancient origins of mycorrhizal fungi, but precise timing and evolutionary dynamics remain areas of active investigation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the early evolutionary history of arbuscular mycorrhizae using new fossil evidence.
    • To analyze the evolutionary trajectory of ectomycorrhizal fungi within the Basidiomycota.
    • To elucidate the paleoecological significance of mycorrhizal symbioses and their role in the evolution of mutualisms.

    Main Methods:

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    • Analysis of newly discovered microfossil evidence to determine the age of arbuscular mycorrhizae.
    • Phylogenetic analysis of fungal genomes within the Basidiomycota to reconstruct ectomycorrhizal evolution.
    • Comparative analysis of fossil and phylogenetic data to infer ancestral states and evolutionary transitions.

    Main Results:

    • Fossil evidence indicates the presence of arbuscular mycorrhizae dating back to 460 million years ago, preceding the evolution of vascular plants.
    • Phylogenetic analyses reveal that ectomycorrhizal symbiosis has been repeatedly gained and lost throughout the evolutionary history of Basidiomycota.
    • These findings suggest a complex and dynamic evolutionary path for mycorrhizal associations.

    Conclusions:

    • The early appearance of arbuscular mycorrhizae underscores their fundamental role in early terrestrial ecosystems.
    • The recurrent evolution of ectomycorrhizae highlights the adaptability and plasticity of fungal symbiotic strategies.
    • These studies enhance our understanding of the deep evolutionary roots and ecological importance of plant-fungal mutualisms.