Growth chambers and greenhouses for the study of root connections and mycorrhizea networks

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The project consists in acquiring shade cloths and aluminium flooring for UQAT's greenhouses, as well as an exterior compressor/condenser unit and surge protectors for our growth chambers. The research programs to be supported are those of Drs DesRochers and Bergeron, aiming firstly to demonstrate physiological integration between trees, through root connections and grafts, and its effects on forest ecology. Many experiments have to be conducted under controlled conditions in order to be able to manipulate the root systems and measure physiological responses. DesRochers also develops intensive silviculture management scenarios mostly using hybrid poplars and aspens that have to be continuously produced and maintained in the greenhouse or growth chambers to be used in controlled experiments or to be used in the field. Bergeron's research program associated to this application also aims to study relationships between trees, but this time through ectomycorrhizal fungi shared between species of the eastern Canadian forest, aspen, balsam fir and black spruce. There would be a facilitation relationship between aspen and balsam fir allowed by symbiotic ectomycorrhizae via mycelium networks.This research has great ecological significance, because it shows that trees are not distinct individuals; they can directly share substances through root connections or mycorrhizae, and hence directly influence growth of one another. This research will force us to reconsider our traditional forest stand dynamics concepts such as competition and succession. From an applied perspective, few practioners have associated successful or unsuccessful silvicultural operations to root connections. For example, we have shown that thinning results could be significantly influenced by root connections between trees. A great proportion of stands in the boreal forest are in a mature or over-mature state, enticing forest practitioners to carry out more partial cutting in order to 'extend' wood volumes over time. Understanding the effects of root connections will have a significant impact on the success of such practices.