Underground Explorers

This project investigates the variety and adaptability of ectomycorrhizal fungi in Peru's nutrient-poor Amazonian forests, particularly in the Yungas forests of POTSOM POSHOLL and the white-sand forests of the Allpahuayo-Mishana Reserve. Our goal is to find fungal symbioses that promote ecosystem functioning through soil and root sampling, metabarcoding methods (ITS and AMF markers), and community involvement. In order to produce ecological knowledge that will direct soil conservation, restoration, and sustainable management in tropical forest landscapes. The project will evaluate how these fungi respond to human pressures.