Researchers from the University of Jyväskylä in Finland are undertaking a groundbreaking project to map the diversity of fungi using air sampling techniques. Led by Nerea Abrego, PhD, the team aims to gain insights into the spatial and seasonal dynamics of fungi, which are among the most ecologically important organisms on Earth.
In their study, the researchers collected air samples from various locations worldwide and employed DNA sequencing to identify the fungi present. By analyzing the data, they were able to uncover valuable information about the occurrence and seasonal variation of both known and unknown fungi, shedding light on the climatic and evolutionary factors influencing their distribution.
The findings revealed that the kingdom of fungi follows highly predictable spatial and temporal dynamics globally, with species richness and community composition exhibiting seasonality that increases with latitude. The study also highlighted that tropical regions host the highest fungal diversity, except for certain types of fungi that reach their peak diversity in temperate regions.
Abrego emphasized the importance of this knowledge in understanding the thriving patterns of different fungal species and predicting their fate in the face of ongoing global change. She also expressed interest in further research to examine the sequences of fungi that are relevant to humans, including those causing diseases in humans, crops, and production animals, as well as those indicating the loss of nature and weakening of natural ecosystem processes.
The researchers’ work holds significant implications for biodiversity monitoring and forecasting. By utilizing DNA, image, and audio data, a follow-up project is underway to study various organisms, including fungi, insects, mammals, birds, bats, and frogs, at numerous locations worldwide.
Abrego is also leading a project that integrates air sampling and other innovative research methods into the regular Finnish national forest inventory, coordinated by the Natural Resources Institute Finland. This initiative, funded by the Finnish Ministry of the Environment, aims to generate comprehensive information about natural diversity, particularly focusing on poorly known fungi and insects. The resulting data can then be utilized in decision-making processes.