Research in the Chaudhary Lab examines fundamental questions in plant-soil-microbial ecology, plant microbiome functioning, and the emerging field of microbial movement ecology. We use trait-based approaches to develop predictive frameworks for microbial dispersal, community assembly, and biogeography with a focus on plant-fungal mycorrhizal symbioses. Our research employs complimentary approaches of macroecological field work, controlled lab experiments, and big data synthesis to study multi-scale questions in ecology. Our work spans a diversity of ecosystems, from deserts to forests to cities, and has applications in ecosystem restoration, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity conservation.
Linking macroecology and traits to predict mycorrhizal fungal dispersal
Dispersal is a key process driving local-scale community assembly and global-scale biogeography of ecological communities. Plants in most ecosystems on Earth form close associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, obligate root symbionts that improve plant access to soil resources in exchange for photosynthetically derived carbon. Significant knowledge gaps remain regarding the mechanisms of long-distance dispersal in these cryptic, belowground, common, and ecologically significant fungi. Combining macrosystems ecology, trait-based ecology, and high throughput sequencing of eDNA, we model the ecoclimatic predictors of AM fungal aerial dispersal. This research is funded by the NSF CAREER program and leveraged by NEON, the National Ecological Observatory Network. |
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Synthesis in microbial ecology
Data synthesis and computational analytics can be increasingly powerful tools for studying the complexity of soil ecological interactions. We created and currently curate MycoDB, a large publicly-available database of over 4,000 studies on plant response to mycorrhizal fungi that can be used for multi-factor phylogenetic meta-analyses. Also, through a working group funded by the Powell Center for Analysis and Synthesis, we are using meta-analysis and structural equation modeling meta-analyses to synthesize data regarding the ecosystem functions of biological soil crusts in drylands. Collaborators: Jason Hoeksema, Matt Bowker, and many many more.
Data synthesis and computational analytics can be increasingly powerful tools for studying the complexity of soil ecological interactions. We created and currently curate MycoDB, a large publicly-available database of over 4,000 studies on plant response to mycorrhizal fungi that can be used for multi-factor phylogenetic meta-analyses. Also, through a working group funded by the Powell Center for Analysis and Synthesis, we are using meta-analysis and structural equation modeling meta-analyses to synthesize data regarding the ecosystem functions of biological soil crusts in drylands. Collaborators: Jason Hoeksema, Matt Bowker, and many many more.
Mycorrhizal mediation of urban green roof ecosystem services
Green roofs are increasingly incorporated into urban sustainability planning for their ability to retain storm water, insulate buildings, and curb urban heat island effects. Healthy functioning soils are required for optimal functioning of green roofs, but little is known about mycorrhizal associations on green roofs. Our work examines mycorrhizal fungi on green roofs and their potential influence on green roof ecosystem services and urban biodiversity. Collaborators: Kelly Ksiazek-Mikenas.
Green roofs are increasingly incorporated into urban sustainability planning for their ability to retain storm water, insulate buildings, and curb urban heat island effects. Healthy functioning soils are required for optimal functioning of green roofs, but little is known about mycorrhizal associations on green roofs. Our work examines mycorrhizal fungi on green roofs and their potential influence on green roof ecosystem services and urban biodiversity. Collaborators: Kelly Ksiazek-Mikenas.
Students of Color experiences in Environmental Science/Studies
Ecology and Environmental degree programs lag behind other STEM disciplines in racial and ethnic diversity despite strong environmental concern, interest, and preparedness among Black, Indigenous, and other Students of Color. Through interviews and focus groups we are investigating student motivations for choosing an environmental major, supports or impediments to success in the program, and student recommendations for making programs more inclusive for racial and ethnic minorities. Collaborators: Tania Schusler.
Ecology and Environmental degree programs lag behind other STEM disciplines in racial and ethnic diversity despite strong environmental concern, interest, and preparedness among Black, Indigenous, and other Students of Color. Through interviews and focus groups we are investigating student motivations for choosing an environmental major, supports or impediments to success in the program, and student recommendations for making programs more inclusive for racial and ethnic minorities. Collaborators: Tania Schusler.