Identifying Microbial Networks for Signal Detection and Propagation

Natural systems are replete with networks of microbes that collect information and transmit it to one another through signals. We will develop tools to harness natural signal detection and transmission systems by focusing on coupled above-and-belowground sensors: trees and ectomycorrhizal fungi. Forested ecosystems are supported by networks of fungal fibers that extend for tens of meters belowground. These information highways transport sugar, water, nutrients, and aboveground signals (such as indicators of climate state or damage to the host plant) between host plant individuals. Ectomycorrhizal fungi also act to bioaccumulate and concentrate environmental toxins, such as heavy metals. Thus, understanding these existing networks could have a number of potential benefits: (1) They are widespread and stable, meaning that signal transmission infrastructure already exists. (2) The networks are extensive (extending throughout forested systems) and coupled to “antennae” (plants) where signals are easily observable by humans. (3) Fungi involved in networks are pre-evolved for long-distance transmission of environmental signals.