Linking fungal-bacterial co-occurrences to soil ecosystem function

Area of Science:

• Soil microbiology
• Biogeochemistry
• Ecosystem ecology

Background:

• Fungi and bacteria are key drivers of soil biogeochemical cycles.
• Most research isolates fungal or bacterial roles, neglecting their interactions.
• Interactions may significantly influence soil processes and ecosystem services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of fungal-bacterial interactions in soil.
• To challenge the traditional view of fungi and bacteria as isolated functional groups.
• To emphasize the need for integrated studies of soil microbial communities.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on fungal-bacterial co-occurrences in soil.
• Analysis of correlation network studies investigating microbial interactions.
• Synthesis of findings on shared and distinct ecosystem roles.

Main Results:

• Fungal-bacterial interactions play a significant role in soil biogeochemical cycles.
• Correlation network analyses reveal both differences and overlaps in fungal and bacterial ecosystem functions.
• The study of fungi and bacteria in isolation is insufficient to understand soil processes.

Conclusions:

• Fungal-bacterial interactions are integral to soil functioning and cannot be ignored.
• A comprehensive understanding requires studying the interplay between soil properties, biogeochemical cycles, and microbial interactions.
• Integrating interaction studies is vital for predicting and managing soil ecosystem services.