Ecologists have mused over the mechanisms that structure plant communities for centuries. One such mechanism is negative density dependence, which has been proposed as a an important promoter of tree species diversity across plant communities. However, most negative density-dependence studies to date have focused on the roles played by insects and fungal pathogens. Less attention has been put on the potential for mutualistic fungi to influence patterns of density dependence and hence the structure and diversity of plant communities.
Recent advances have highlighted the potential for beneficial mutualistic fungi to counteract the effects of natural enemies on plants, and to influence plant community structure. Yet, the effects of beneficial fungi on plant communities are highly context dependent. This joint special feature with Journal of Ecology, Functional Ecology, and Journal of Applied Ecology aims to highlight the importance of beneficial fungi for plant community dynamics, but also demonstrate their importance in the context of global change and ecosystem restoration.
We’re currently seeking manuscript proposals for this Special Feature! Examples of the types of contributions include (but are certainly not limited to):
- Studies of the role of beneficial fungi in altering antagonistic plant-enemy interactions
- Investigation of how plant functional traits influence the effects of beneficial fungi on plant-plant and/or plant-enemy interactions
- Exploration of the role of beneficial fungi in buffering plant communities against global change
- Trait-based approaches to investigating the roles of beneficial fungi in shaping plant communities
Please SEE HERE for further details on what each journal is looking for, and how to submit your proposal.
Proposals should be submitted by 30th April 2023. If your proposal is accepted, your manuscript should be submitted by 30th November 2023.
