Dotty dots on trees

Plants exist in close association with microbes, both on the surface (epiphytes) and inside (endophytes). These microbes are also known as the second genome of plants that help fight against biotic and abiotic stressors. The ElmAsh project will explore microbiomes of different ash genotypes to identify and grow culturable microbes that could be used as bioagents in combating ash dieback disease and other threats. This image shows some of the fungal epiphytes that grew on the surface of a fallen tree into these beautiful mushroom-like structures, which are also providing an essential ecosystem service by decomposing a dead tree into organic matter.

Photo and description by: Dheeraj Rathore, Research Officer, Tree Improvement.

Teagasc Project: ElmAsh.