Positive citation bias and overinterpreted results lead to misinformation on common mycorrhizal networks in forests (feb, 10.1038/s41559-023-01986-1, 2023)

Summary: This article explores the communication methods between plants and mycorrhizal fungi, as well as the communication between plants through mycorrhizal networks. The authors propose different forms of communication, such as plantish, fungish, and wired communication, and highlight the important roles of certain molecules in symbiotic communication. Furthermore, the article suggests that mycorrhizal networks enable inter-plant communication through nutrient transfer, stress signals, and allelochemicals, providing plants with sophisticated intelligence.

Summary: Plants make up 80% of Earth's biomass, with wood accounting for two-thirds of this biomass. Carbon transport from photosynthetic tissues is essential for wood formation. This review discusses the molecules and mechanisms involved in carbon transport in trees, focusing on the distribution and synthesis of different carbon-carrying compounds. The study also highlights the annual cycle of growth and dormancy in trees, evolutionary drivers behind diversity in carbon-carrying molecules, and possible future research directions in this field.

Summary: The phenomenon of kin recognition in plants can have significant implications for the evolution of plant traits, diversity of plant populations, ecological networks, and community structures. Kin selection may result in improved population performance, offering potential promise for crop breeding.