COLLIAM

Possible Stimulation by Mycophagous Collimonas Bacteria of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Functioning

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) fungi are key components in sustainable agriculture as they enable efficient nutrient uptake by crops when chemical fertilization is reduced. AM fungal functioning is, however, influenced by other microbes that interact with their hyphae. One of these microorganisms is the recently discovered genus Collimonas. Collimonas bacteria show a great potential application in sustainable agriculture both as a biocontrol agent and as a P-solubilizer, based on its mycophagy (feed on fungi) and mineral weathering abilities. Here, I propose for the first time, the possible application of AM fungi and Collimonas bacteria as a consortium of beneficial microorganisms for sustainable agriculture purposes. The successful application is dependent on our understanding of the interaction between Collimonas and AM fungi. The aim of this proposal is to gain insights on the mechanisms involved in the interaction, its relevance in natural ecosystems and its influence on plant performance. The Collimonas-AM fungal interaction has both positive (increased hyphal branching, higher supply of nutrients) and negative (consumption of AM hyphae) components. My general hypothesis is that the interaction between both microorganisms commonly occurs in nature and results in a positive mutualistic relationship from which plants benefit. The hyphosphere would provide a beneficial environment for Collimonas growth, which in turn would increase nutrient availability for AM fungi and, consequently, for the plant. To test my hypothesis I propose a highly interdisciplinary approach combining advanced molecular, biochemical and microscopic techniques in natural ecosystems, microcosms and in vitro experiments. The results are expected to bring out new leads for novel strategies in sustainable agriculture by improving AM fungi functioning through Collimonas inoculation. The main benefits of the program for my career are enhanced independency and experience in cutting-edge techniques.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

Researchers have shown, for the first time, how specific fungi and bacteria around plant roots can interact to benefit the plant.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are an important group of fungal species that grow symbiotically with plant roots, helping them take up nutrients. Scientists have recently found a group of bacteria called Collimonas that interact with AM fungi, but the function of the relationship is not clear.

The EU-funded 'Possible stimulation by mycophagous Collimonas bacteria of arbuscular mycorrhizal functioning' (COLLIAM) project aimed to understand how AM fungi and Collimonas bacteria interact. Researchers intended to use these microorganisms as a soil treatment for sustainable agriculture.

COLLIAM conducted physiological experiments to better understand the relationship between AM fungi, Collimonas bacteria and soil nutrients. Initial studies confirmed that Collimonas bacteria feed on parts of the AM fungi, and that the bacteria can take up phosphorus from the soil.

Researchers also showed that Collimonas grew up to 10 times faster in the presence of AM fungi, and could in return stimulate growth in the AM fungi. COLLIAM concluded that the mutualistic relationship between AM fungi and Collimonas ultimately benefited plants through increased nutrient availability and strong AM fungi growth.

This project has demonstrated that these mutualistic microorganisms could be useful as a soil treatment for sustainable agriculture.