Markekologi

We study the diversity of soil organisms, their importance for ecosystem processes, their interactions with plants and how they are affected by different management practices. This knowledge can help us to protect soil biodiversity from the effects of climate and land-use changes.

Biogeography of soil organisms

Soil contains a variety of organisms, from microscopic bacteria to earthworms. Using modern DNA methods (metabarcoding and metagenomics approaches), we document the diversity distribution of soil organisms at national and global scales. This knowledge is important to determine hotspots of diversity and influencing factors in order to protect soil biodiversity. 

Mohammad Bahram, Tord Ranheim Sveen, Maria Viketoft, Astrid Taylor

Microbial diversity, nutrient cycling and environmental change

What role do soil microbial diversity have for soil structure, decomposition and nutrient cycling? This research has implications for assessing the importance of soil biodiversity for ecosystem functioning and delivery of soil-related ecosystem services, and may aid in predicting the effects of environmental change. 

Mohammad Bahram,  Monique Smith, Tord Ranheim Sveen, Louisa-Marlen Tägtmeyer

Impact of soil management on soil fauna 

Larger soil organisms, i.e. soil fauna such as nematodes, mites and earthworms, also play a role for soil structure and decomposition. We study the effects of land-use change and different management practices (both in agriculture and forestry) on soil fauna and their functions in soil. This research has implications for improving management and conservation planning to sustain or improve soil functions. 

Maria Viketoft, Neus Rodriguez-Gasol, Astrid Taylor, Tryggve Persson, Jan Bengtsson

Interactions between plants and soil organisms

Plants provide food resources for soil organisms both when they are living and dead. Soil organisms can, in turn, affect the growth of plants. One example is the interaction of plants and mycorrhizal fungi which is essential for plant productivity. On the other hand, other soil organisms may damage roots and decrease yields. In the long run, a better understanding of plant-soil organism interactions can aid in developing methods for better management and mitigating the negative impact of environmental changes. 

Maria Viketoft, Mohammad Bahram, Monique Smith, Tord Ranheim Sveen, Louisa-Marlen Tägtmeyer