Underground Explorers

This proposal aims to investigate the role of mycorrhizal communities in sustaining rangeland ecosystems in Khaptad National Park (KNP), Nepal, within the Hindu Kush Himalayan region. Despite rangelands covering 12% of Nepal's area and supporting highland communities, they are under-researched and face significant degradation from overgrazing, shrub encroachment, and anthropogenic pressures. This research aims to fill this gap by investigating three key hypotheses: 1) Mycorrhizal diversity in highland rangelands is linked to native plant species composition and ecosystem function; 2) Mycorrhizal fungi enhance soil fertility and plant resilience through nutrient cycling; and 3) Mycorrhiza contribute to the stability and resilience of plant communities under increasing anthropogenic pressures. The study will involve collecting 50 soil samples from five stratified sites within KNP, based on vegetation types and disturbance gradients. The findings are expected to have significant local, regional, and global impacts, including updating Nepal's national fungal checklist, informing conservation strategies like the Nepal National Biodiversity and Action Plan (NBSAP), and developing awareness materials on wild mushrooms. Ultimately, this project seeks to integrate fungal ecology into sustainable rangeland management policies and enhance local community awareness of the importance of mycorrhiza for their livelihoods.