Climate mismatches with ectomycorrhizal fungi contribute to migration lag in North American tree range shifts

Document Type : Scientific News

Author

Assistant Prof., Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran,

10.22092/irn.2026.370881.1684

Abstract

Climate change is driving many plant and animal species to migrate to new regions, but forest trees often lag behind in their movement. Recent research indicates that one key factor limiting tree migration is the presence of mycorrhizal fungi in the soil. These fungi form extensive symbiotic networks with tree roots, facilitating the uptake of essential nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen, while also enhancing tree resistance to drought, pathogens, and other environmental stresses. Modeling of various tree and fungal species demonstrates that in newly colonized regions, many trees encounter soils lacking vital symbiotic fungi, which can significantly reduce their growth, establishment, and long-term survival. Some tree species, including members of the pine family, which depend on a greater diversity of fungal partners, are particularly vulnerable under these conditions. These findings highlight the critical role of mycorrhizal fungi in successful tree migration, afforestation, establishment, and overall forest ecosystem resilience, emphasizing the importance of integrating biotic interactions into conservation planning and assisted migration strategies.

Keywords

Iran Nature
Volume 10, Issue 6 - Serial Number 55
March and April 2026
Pages 122-123

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