ICOM10

Dear Colleagues,
I am very pleased to welcome you to the 10th International Conference on Mycorrhiza in Mérida, Mexico.

Scientists working on mycorrhizal symbioses have known for more than a century that plant- associated microbes, such as mycorrhizal fungi, take center stage in terrestrial ecosystems. A century of research has clarified the nature of what is undoubtedly the commonest and most important symbiosis in terrestrial ecosystems. Simply stated, nearly all families of plants form root symbiotic associations, named mycorrhizas, with soil fungi. The importance of this symbiosis in promoting plant nutrient status and growth is now well established, and mycorrhizas are used worldwide to develop sustainable agriculture and forestry.

Primary research papers in the last few years since ICOM9 in Prague have broken the ground for new lines of research, from regulation of gene expression to the ecological relevance of mycorrhizal symbioses. They have provided detailed insights into the complexity of mycorrhizal fungal communities and populations, offering exciting prospects for elucidation of the processes that structure their communities and biogeography.

There is no doubt that ICOM10 sessions and workshops will be fertile ground for novel hypotheses that will advance our general perspective on plant and fungal ecology and evolution, and will provide new insights on the biological dynamics that mediate the flux of matter and energy in terrestrial ecosystems through mycorrhizal interfaces.

It is hoped that the ICOM10 will stimulate further research, and will encourage younger scientists in our community to look to future challenges that lie ahead.

I would like to thank Professor Javier Álvarez Sánchez, the Local Organizing Committee and the International Scientific Committee for putting together very exciting scientific and social programs. On behalf of the Board of Directors of the International Mycorrhiza Society

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the International Mycorrhiza Society

Dr. Francis M. Martin
President of the International Mycorrhiza Society