Mother trees, altruistic fungi, and the perils of plant personification.

We have analyzed the claims made in two highly popular books, which promulgate the idea that trees possess a number of human characteristics for which there is no sound scientific evidence. A critical evaluation of the mother tree hypothesis also reveals that much of the data given in support of this concept is flawed and perhaps even non-existent. This concept is also incompatible with many well-known observations on the growth of forest trees. Moreover, there is no evidence from peer-reviewed published studies to support the claim that mature trees in forests communicate preferentially with offspring through a common mycelial network. It also remains unclear whether carbon compounds transmitted in the mycorrhizae actually enter the root tissue of the receiver tree. In any event, numerous studies indicate that the amounts of carbon transferred are physiologically insignificant. There are growing doubts about the true role of the common mycorrhizal networks (CMN or wood wide web) connecting the roots of trees in forests. We question the claims of a substantial carbon transfer from 'mother trees' to their offspring and nearby seedlings through the CMN. Recent reviews show that evidence for the 'mother tree concept' is inconclusive or absent. The origin of this concept seems to stem from a desire to humanize plant life but can lead to misunderstandings and false interpretations and may eventually harm rather than help the commendable cause of preserving forests. Two recent books serve as examples: The Hidden Life of Trees and Finding the Mother Tree. A recent article highlights the growing doubts about the true role of the common mycorrhizal networks [CMN or wood wide web (WWW)] connecting the roots of trees in forests. It questions the claim of a substantial carbon transfer from 'mother trees' to their offspring and nearby seedlings through the CMN. Recent reviews show that evidence for the 'mother tree concept' is inconclusive or absent. The origin of this concept seems to stem from a desire to humanize plant life but can lead to misunderstandings and false interpretations and may eventually harm rather than help the commendable cause of preserving forests. Two recent books serve as examples: The Hidden Life of Trees and Finding the Mother Tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]