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

Authors :: Robinson DG
Ammer C
Polle A
Bauhus J
Aloni R
Annighöfer P
Baskin TI
Blatt MR
Bolte A
Bugmann H
Cohen JD
Davies PJ
Draguhn A
Hartmann H
Hasenauer H
Hepler PK
Kohnle U
Lang F
Löf M
Messier C
Munné-Bosch S
Murphy A
Puettmann KJ
Marchant IQ
Raven PH
Robinson D
Sanders D
Seidel D
Schwechheimer C
Spathelf P
Steer M
Taiz L
Wagner S
Henriksson N
Näsholm T
Source :: Trends in plant science [Trends Plant Sci] 2024 Jan; Vol. 29 (1), pp. 20-31. Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Sep 19.
Publication Year :: 2024
Abstract: 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.<br />Competing Interests: Declaration of interests T. N. declares a conflicting interest as he owns shares in and works part time for the company Arevo AB that develops, produces, and markets organic fertilizers. The other authors have no conflicting interests.<br /> (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)