Underground Explorers

Mapping the diversity of mycorrhizal fungi in a forest–savanna transition zone in Gabon. This project aims to characterize the diversity of mycorrhizal fungi along a forest–savanna ecological succession gradient in the northeastern part of Lopé National Park, Gabon. Based on soil sampling conducted in 60 plots distributed along a 12-km transect, the study will analyze fungal communities associated with different vegetation stages, ranging from fire-maintained savannas to old-growth forests. Molecular analyses, using high-throughput sequencing of soil DNA, will allow the identification of ectomycorrhizal and arbuscular fungi and the assessment of their relationships with plant diversity, primary productivity, and carbon dynamics. The results will help fill knowledge gaps on belowground biodiversity in the Congo Basin, while strengthening local scientific compacity, supporting the management of Lopé National Park, and improving understanding of the role of soil microorganisms in tropical ecosystem functioning and climate regulation.