Dispersal Limitation Controlling the Assembly of the Fungal Community in Karst Caves

As a unique ecosystem, Karst caves harbor an impressive diversity of specific fungi. However, the factors and mechanisms that shape fungal biodiversity in caves remain elusive. In this study, we explored the assembly patterns of fungal communities based on our previous research in eight representative Karst caves in Southwest China. Our results indicated that dispersal limitation plays a crucial role in shaping the overall fungal community as well as specific communities in rock, sediment, and water samples. However, Undominated processes contributed more than dispersal limitation in air samples. Interestingly, the dominant assembly processes varied between caves. Consistently, environmental selection had a minor impact on the assembly of fungal communities. Among the examined spatial and environmental variables, latitude, longitude, altitude, and temperature were found to significantly influence fungal communities irrespective of substrate type. These findings provide valuable insights into the ecological factors governing fungal community assembly in Karst caves.

Automated summary

This study explores the assembly patterns of fungal communities in Karst caves based on research conducted in eight representative caves in Southwest China. The results indicate that dispersal limitation is a crucial factor in shaping fungal communities in rock, sediment, and water samples, while undominated processes play a larger role in air samples. Interestingly, the dominant assembly processes vary between caves. Environmental selection has a minor impact on fungal community assembly, with latitude, longitude, altitude, and temperature significantly influencing fungal communities regardless of substrate type.