Research
Fungal ecology
The international and national societal discussion on species extinction due to anthropogenic actions spans the scope of our research field at the University of Bayreuth. The overarching goal of our research activities is to develop better mechanistic models that allow predictions about the consequences of anthropogenic actions on fungal diversity and consequently ecosystem processes and services. On this basis, we gain deep ecological knowledge of fungi and efficient management recommendations can be derived to meet both societal demands: the use of resources in times of climate change and the conservation of fungal diversity. In doing so, we use modern methods of field and laboratory research and follow complementary research approaches:
Fungal diversity
The basis is a better understanding of central mechanisms and fungal diversity drivers in the forest. Here, observational approaches ("survey data") often reach their limits ("confounding effects"). Therefore, we established several experiments on different scales with colleagues in the last years. The experiments allow analyses from the object level (e.g., deadwood log), plot level up to the forest stand level. Within this framework, classical and modern acquisition methods (e.g., high-throughput sequencing) are used, as well as simultaneous acquisition of important process data (e.g., decomposition rates and material fluxes). Such modeling approaches allow deeper analyses, for example, to elucidate the influence of complex factors on species community formation processes and associated ecosystem processes (matter cycling) along environmental gradients. To gain a deeper understanding of fungal species community response along environmental gradients, analyses of adaptive mechanisms at the genetic (e.g., via genomics, transcriptomics), morphological (measurement of traits), and behavioral (temporal resolution of occurrence) levels are needed.
Functional diversity
We use spatially high-resolution distribution data at different scales with temporal repetition and the elaboration of large phylogenies (mega-phylogenies) as well as species trait matrices (life-history traits) to gain a better understanding on the variability of fungal diversity in time and space. On this basis, estimates can be made of how diversity and ecosystem functions, will change in times of climate change. On this basis, concrete recommendations for action can be derived to stop the loss of biodiversity.
Laboratory experiments
The mechanisms of how different environmental gradients and factors affect fungal individuals and species are in many cases still unknown. This is especially the case for the different life cycle stages. Fungi have a complex life cycle and current research in the field mostly relies only on fruit bodies or eDNA evidence (metabarcoding). In the laboratory, there is the possibility to investigate how environmental factors have complementary and independent effects on the different life cycle phases of fungi. To answer these questions, we use climatic chambers with fungal model systems. This allows the investigation of each life stage, from monokaryotic to dicaroytic hyphae to the fructification and sporulation phase under controlled environmental factors.