The Influence of Invasive Species on Host-Associated Microbiomes
Cluster of Excellence Work Package: WP 1.2
Project description:
A number of plants are part of a “blacklist”
of invasive species in Europe. The plants of the “blacklist” are considered to
have the capacity to change natural environments, influence native vegetations
and displace native plant species. In central Europe the most aggressive
invasive plants include the knotweed species Fallopia (Reynoutria) japonica
(Japanese knotweed) and F. sachalinensis (Sakhalin knotweed) (EPPO Lists of
Invasive Alien Plants, 2023). The reason for the success and invasiveness of
Fallopia spp. is associated with its clonal propagation and by its capacity to
produce a number of secondary phenolic compounds with potential allelopathic
activities (Martin et al., 2020, NeoBiota 56: 89-110; Stefanowicz et al., 2021,
Sci Total Environ. 767:145439). These phenolic compounds including condensed
tannins, catechin, chlorogenic acid, emodin and others and might be part of the
reason for the reduction of total fungal (25%) and bacterial (30%) biomass
reduction. Other studies suggest an overall increase of bacterial diversity in
plant microbiomes, especially in environments with allelopathic compounds
produced by invasive plant species (Torres et al. 2021, BMC Ecol Evo 21, 172).
Other invasive species with strong allelopathic compound production but
distinct reproduction strategy include Impatiens glandulifera (Himalayan
balsam), where the phenolic naphtoquinones play an important role (Block et
al., 2019, Plant Direct 3: e00132).
The PhD student will perform the following
tasks:
·
Assess whether
invasive plants have specific rhizosphere, endophytic or epiphytic microbiomes
·
Assess whether there
are specific functions associated with these microorganisms, including high
adaption to the invasive species or metabolization of the allelopathic
substances
·
Assess whether the
microbiome plays a role in the shaping of the invasive character and negative
influence on other plants
·
Assess whether there
are selective pressures shaping the plant microbiome
Apply here https://weblogin.univie.ac.at/idp/profile/SAML2/POST/SSO?execution=e2s1
How to apply https://microplanet.at/howtoapply
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