| Popis: |
Re-forestation of mining areas is essential to limit soil erosion by wind and water, including runoff of metallic sediments. Here, we will focus on ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi, the predominant group of root symbionts of pioneer trees that are essential in afforestation and re-forestation practices. We review the literature dealing with the diversity and functional strategies of ECM communities and population on metal-contaminated forest sites in trees established on heavy metal-contaminated areas in different stages of succession. New knowledge gained from investigation of the ECM community in a former uranium mining area and an undisturbed site is included. In addition, molecular biological investigation of the ECM fungus Tricholoma vaccinum demonstrates changed gene expression profiles after contact with heavy metals. |
