← Elaine Ingham · Research and publications
Fungi connect organic matter with roots
Decomposition, soil structure and mycorrhizal partnerships come together in Ingham’s chapter on soil fungi.
Educational chapter published:
Hyphae extending through soil
Most soil fungi grow as fine hyphae. The chapter describes how these explore spaces between particles, bind soil materials and participate in decomposing complex plant residues. [1]
Decomposition and symbiosis
Saprotrophic fungi use dead organic matter. Mycorrhizal fungi associate with roots and exchange nutrients for plant carbon. The text also examines pathogenic fungi and organisms with biological control potential. [1]
Partnerships need suitable conditions
Ingham connects mycorrhizal relationships with crop management. Frequent cultivation, broad-spectrum fungicides and very high nitrogen or phosphorus additions can reduce these associations. The choice of host plants matters too.
From knowledge to the olive grove
Our practical question is how to maintain suitable conditions around roots. We track disturbance, ground cover and input history. Changes in fungal communities need recording over time alongside plant condition.
Sources and references
- Ingham, E.R. (1999). Soil Fungi. Soil Biology Primer, unit D. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Soil Quality Institute, PA-1637. August 1999. Original publication and study record
- Original full paper as PDF