Many scientific studies published in recent years have claimed to have discovered it. the Trees they communicate with each other through vast underground mushroom networks. Thanks to this system, trees would warn each other about the existence of dangers and thus they would be on the alert. And yet youA new study based on a lot of previous research concludes that none of this has been proven.
Professor Justine Karst of the University of Alberta (Canada) recently published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution An article in which, together with two colleagues from other universities, he refuted the three main statements that supported this belief.
Basically, previous studies have shown that known underground fungi common mycorrhizal networks (CMNs) connect the roots of multiple plants underground and transfer nutrients and information through the soil.. Scientists like Suzanne Simard of the University of British Columbia have found that all trees in a forest, even if they belong to different genera, They are interconnected like a plant internet and send signals to help each other in times of danger.such as pests, diseases and other attacks.
there is no proof of this
However, heExamining more than 1,500 scientific papers on the subject, new research refutes this assumption.. “It’s great that CMR research is sparking interest in forest mushrooms, but it’s important for the public to understand that there are popular ideas that are ahead of science,” says Justine Karst.
It is true that these underground fungal networks do exist, but the researchers say there is not enough evidence to show that these networks help trees communicate with each other.
First of all, the claim that CMRs are common in forests does not seem scientifically proven. Quite simply, how these mushroom nets work underground is still largely unknown. The new research says that “very few forests” have actually been mapped.
Second For the lack of evidence, question whether these nets serve to deliver nutrients to trees and their seedlings, accelerate their growth and ensure their survival. In fact, previous studies have found that even assuming trees are able to transfer these resources through the soil, RMC networks are more likely to develop enough to harm plants, although for the most part the effect is neutral.
Likewise, real adult trees are not supported to send alert signals to other instances via these networks By no peer-reviewed study, Karst claims in her research.
“Distorting science is a problem in forest CMRs, because sound science is essential in deciding how to manage forests. It is premature to base forest practices and policies on CMRs alone without further evidence. Failure to detect misinformation can erode public trust in science,” Karst warns.
Reference work: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-023-01986-1
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