Division Organismic Biology: Working Group Mycology
We are interested in systematic, functional and ecological questions of fungi, particularly in interactions with plants (Lichens, Mycorrhiza) and with insects. Our studies include light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, cultures, enzymatic activities, DNA-sequencing, and -cloning. We study preferentially Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Of special interest is functional anatomics of ectomycorrhizae, the symbiotic organs of fungi and plant roots. They deliver valuable information regarding function for tree nutrition and regarding systematic relationships. Presently we study the influence of ozone on species composition of ectomycorrhizae and their role as carbohydrate sinks for forest trees.