Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of Litter Decomposition and Assimilation of Nitrogen by Ectomycorrhizal Fungi
Popular Abstract in English Fungi are multi-cellular eukaryotic organisms which form thread-like filaments called hyphae. They form reproductive structures called sporocarp (also known as mushrooms). Most fungi are saproptrophs, feeding on dead or decaying material while many are also parasitic, feeding on living organisms. In addition, most vascular plants are always in symbiotic association withEctomycorrhizae is the dominant type of mycorrhiza found in association with tree roots in boreal and northern temperate forests. In this symbiosis, the fungal partner derives energy from photosynthates provided by the host trees and in return delivers soil-derived nutrients such as nitrogen (N). The majority of N in forest soils is embedded in recalcitrant organic matter–protein complexes. Ectomy