ICOM8

The International Conference on Mycorrhiza (ICOM) provides a global forum to exchange discoveries and ideas about mycorrhizal symbioses. It is our pleasure to welcome you to the Eighth ICOM. Our conference theme Integration Across Continents and Scales is designed to cut across traditi onal hierarchical divisions of science and provide a venue where mycorrhizal geneticists, taxonomists, physiologists, ecologists, inoculum producers, and land managers can share insights about one of the most widespread and fascinating symbioses on Earth.

Mycorrhizas integrate plant and fungal kingdoms with a milieu of soil-borne microorganisms to create a complex community that structures soils and defi nes ecosystem properties. Mycorrhizas have their key roles in plant health and production of food and fiber, but increasingly, they long are been recognized for recognized for moving matier and energy through ecosystems. These widespread plant-fungus partnerships function at the interface between living roots and mineral soil. In this regard they integrate the biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems.

ICOM8 is a truly global conference. Approximately 475 people from more than 50 countries will join together for a week of scientific and social exchanges. We can expect to learn about exciting new discoveries and also refl ect on the wisdom of “past giants” in the field of mycorrhizal science. This emersion of knowledge will help catalyze new ways of thinking and advance our abilities to study and understand mycorrhizal symbioses across scales. We hope that ICOM8 will inspire you and provide many opportunities for future research collaborations.

ICOM8 Co-organizers: Catherine Gehring and Nancy Johnson