TED: How to harness the ancient partnership between forests and fungi | Colin Averill

The video explores the intricate relationships between forests and their below-ground ecosystems, emphasizing the role of mycorrhizal fungi in tree growth and carbon capture. It highlights the complexity of soil microbiomes and the potential of DNA sequencing to enhance our understanding of these systems. Drawing parallels with the Human Microbiome Project, the video discusses ongoing field trials aimed at rewilding forest microbiomes to improve forest health and combat climate change. The potential for applying these insights to agriculture and managed landscapes is also considered.

How can understanding the forest microbiome contribute to combating climate change?

In what ways can reintroducing microbial biodiversity impact forest management?

What are the potential benefits of a biodiversity-first approach in agriculture?

What challenges do modern agricultural practices face regarding biodiversity?