Patterns and processes in endophyte ecology - studies in optimal and extreme habitats of European Beech to reveal the underlying principles

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The European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) is one of the most important trees in Central Europe. Due to its tight interconnection with a myriad of micro- and macroscopic organisms the superorganism (holobiont) profoundly influences trophic interactions in forest ecosystems. However, still little is known about patterns and processes of these interconnections.In the present project, the principal investigators will assess diversity patterns of beech-leaf-inhabiting endophytic fungal diversity and their contribution to processes of litter decomposition. During their studies two contrasting habitats for European beech in the German Alps will be compared. In order to reduce the impact of random parameters, i.e. those not in focus of the study, two phytometer systems with young genetically similar beech trees will be installed at the upper beech tree line and at a temperate valley site. In addition, laboratory experiments will unravel the impact of altitude-dependent parameters (temperature, chemical composition of leaves and litter, diversity and composition of fungal communities) on litter decomposition processes by previously endophytic fungi. The project focuses on fundamental processes during fungal decomposition of beech leaf litter and driving forces during the development of fungal communities in litter and living leaves. Climate data as well as comprehensive data on plant fitness, leaf and litter biochemistry will be continuously assessed and provide the background for the central metagenome and (meta)transcriptome analyses. The integrative analyses of a broad spectrum of data will allow for causal connection of causes (altitude) with observed patterns (gene expression, diversity, composition and seasonal development of the fungal community) and processes (litter decomposition). Final microarray gene expression experiments will bridge the gap between taxonomic and functional diversity by analysing metabolic adaptations of decomposer fungi with an endophytic life stage on the transcriptomic level.