Forest fires' impact on fungi and microscopic lifeforms dwelling within the forest's soil.

In the aftermath of forest fires, the damage to the soil becomes evident as attempts are made to repopulate the terrain. One of the most significant impacts of forest fires is on the soil microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and other microbes involved in nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. These microorganisms are often reduced or altered by fire, which can delay the recovery of soil fertility and hinder vegetation regeneration.

Evolution has led to an immense biodiversity thriving beneath the soil, and this diversity plays a crucial role in forest recovery. The reduction in microbial biodiversity after forest fires can condemn up to 20% of young trees to die in the first year without the necessary microorganisms for a healthy forest.

A new approach for forest repopulation is the inoculation of microorganisms to recover the fertility of forest soils. This practice, which is common in countries with high agricultural production like China, India, the United States, Brazil, and Russia, involves using mycorrhizal plants in reforestation or inoculating the soil with mycorrhizal fungi and some bacteria.

Mycorrhizal fungi have lived with trees for millions of years and are essential for tree health. These fungi help trees absorb water and nutrients from the soil, and in return, they receive sugars produced by the tree during photosynthesis. Some of the most valuable fungi in the market, such as black truffle and boletus, are mycorrhizal fungi that cannot be cultivated but grow if there is a healthy tree nearby.

Genetic analyses can now be done to see all the microorganisms in the soil, which was not possible before. This knowledge can help scientists develop more effective strategies for restoring soil microbiota after forest fires. The use of biotechnology and mycorrhizal fungi is a potential solution for recovering forest soils after a fire.

The health of forests affects human health and is connected to all aspects of the ecosystem. By taking steps to protect and restore forest soils, we can help ensure the long-term sustainability of forests and the health of the planet. This article is published by ECOticias.com.

Forest fires' impact on fungi and microscopic lifeforms dwelling within the forest's soil.