Mycorrhizal Networks: Plant Communication Science

By Robin Maitland · October 7, 2026

The Wood Wide Web

Beneath every forest lies an intricate network of fungal threads connecting plant roots. These mycorrhizal networks redistribute resources, transmit chemical signals, and influence survival of entire communities.

What Are Mycorrhizae?

Symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots. Over 90% of land plants form mycorrhizal partnerships. Fungal hyphae extend root absorption by 100–1000x. In exchange for sugars, fungi deliver water, phosphorus, nitrogen, and micronutrients.

Types of Networks

Arbuscular Mycorrhizae (AM)

Ancient, widespread — 80% of plant species. Penetrate root cells forming arbuscules. A single AM network connects dozens of plant species simultaneously.

Ectomycorrhizae (ECM)

Associate with trees (oak, pine, birch). Form sheath around root tips. Basis of the "mother tree" concept — old trees connected to hundreds of seedlings.

Resource Redistribution

Networks transfer carbon from photosynthesizing plants to shaded neighbors. Mother trees send carbon to offspring through ECM networks, increasing seedling survival. Herbivore-attacked plants release chemical signals through the network, prompting connected plants to produce defensive compounds preemptively.

Implications for Gardening

Minimize tilling (destroys hyphae), avoid broad-spectrum fungicides, maintain living roots through cover crops, and inoculate transplants with mycorrhizal products. Diverse plant communities build more resilient networks than monocultures.