by Matteo Cavallito<\/p>\n
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As we know, forests contribute to climate mitigation<\/strong> by trapping greenhouse gases. But not all their trees are created equal. Scientists studying the best strategies for successful reforestation<\/strong> know that well. And researchers at Indiana University<\/a> have proven it once again when they focused on a crucial factor: the behaviour of soil microbes<\/strong> operating in symbiosis with the plant. Some of them, in particular, have proved to be more useful in recycling nitrogen<\/strong>, thus limiting emissions into the atmosphere. Others have shown a greater ability to store carbon<\/strong>. And it’s no coincidence.<\/p>\n The research has focused on two different microorganisms: arbuscular<\/strong> mycorrhizal fungi (AM) and ectomycorrhizal<\/strong> fungi (ECM). According to the researchers, “Nearly all trees associate exclusively with one of two types of mycorrhizal fungi. These specialized fungi form mutualistic relationships with tree roots<\/strong>.” But their effects on carbon and nitrogen storage capacity are different. “In the first study, the authors found that AM<\/strong>-associating trees such as maples, tulip trees, cherry, and ash, which produce fast-cycling detritus, promote soil microbial communities that have more genes capable of processing nitrogen. This leads to the release of nitrogen gases that reduce air quality.” ECM<\/strong>-associating trees such as oaks, hickories, beech, and hemlock do the opposite, “leading to lower gaseous nitrogen losses.”<\/p>\nOak forests store more nitrogen<\/h5>\n