Scientists map soil RNA to fungal genomes to understand forest ecosystems

Phys.org— If a tree falls in the forest—whether or not anyone registers the sound—one thing is for sure: there are lots of fungi around. Within a forest's soil, hundreds of species decompose debris, mobilize nutrients from that decay, and deliver those nutrients to tree roots and soil. These fungi help shape a forest's ecology. They store carbon and cycle key nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.

Phys.org—Researchers develop forest extent map for Mexico. To properly protect forests and evaluate the state of natural resources, conservation practices and environmental policies, it is important to have accurate information on an area's forest extent.

Phys.org—Scientists use 'leaf glow' to understand changing climate. New University of Minnesota research suggests "leaf glow" provides vital information on vegetation dynamics in Arctic and boreal ecosystems like Minnesota's forests and wetlands, which are among the fastest warming in the world. Using remote sensing to monitor the natural glow may help scientists better track climate change and its impact on our natural resources.

www.plenglish.com—Canada faces ecosystem changes due to forest fires. Ottawa, Apr 23 (Prensa Latina) The growing forest fires caused by accelerated warming are destroying the black spruce forests in Canada, which grow relatively slowly and contribute to the organic layer of the underlying soils, it was reported recently. The post Canada faces ecosystem changes due to forest fires first appeared on Prensa Latina.