In ecosystems around the world, fungi play crucial roles in supporting plant life. Their ability to form connections between plant roots can enhance water and nutrient uptake and promote plant growth. While fungal symbioses have been extensively explored in the past, some researchers believe these underground networks may be far more complex than they seem.

Most studies on plant-fungal interactions focus on mycorrhizal fungi, which are famous for constructing nutrient-sharing pathways. However, a new experiment designed by NAU scientists suggests an often-overlooked fungal group—dark septate endophytes (DSEs)—may be capable of something similar to their more popular counterparts: linking the roots of neighboring plants to facilitate water sharing and boost their host's biomass. DSEs may even be responsible for keeping plant networks alive in some of the Southwest's most drought-prone areas.

The study, published in the journal Communications Biology, features co-authors Beatrice Bock, a doctoral student studying biology at NAU; Nancy Johnson, a Regents' professor in the School of Earth and Sustainability; and Catherine Gehring, a Regents' professor in the Department of Biological Sciences.

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