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University of Michigan Biological Station

The University of Michigan Biological Station (UMBS) was founded in 1909.

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Identifying mechanisms of insect repellence in polypore fungi

Terrestrial
plant pathogen
Fungi
pathogen
Aspen
Project Abstract: 
Phellinus tremulae (aspen bracket), is a parasitic polyporous fungus which specifically infects related species quaking aspen (P. tremuloides) in North America and European aspen (P. tremula) in Eurasia. P. tremulae usually penetrates aspens through broken branches, then after approximately five years of co-existence starts making conks (reproductive structures) that present themselves on the trunks of the tree. The tree may stay alive for up to 20 years until it is completely succumbed by heart rot caused by the aspen bracket. The mechanisms of resistance or susceptibility to this fungal pathogen are unknown. The metabolic aspects of relationship between aspens and this pathogen are not studied in details yet. One of the observations about the aspen bracket is that besides being specific to P. tremuloides/tremulae, it also lacks any effective interactions with insects. Normally, polypore fungi are used by insects as habitat and source of food; but not in case of P. tremulae. We hypothesize that this insect repellence is related to natural insect protection mechanisms well known for aspens.
Investigators: 
mshumska
jtallant
Status of Research Project: 
Active
Years Active: 
2025
Methods: 
In order to study metabolic interactions between aspens and aspen brackets, we would need to sample conks of P. tremula, and bark/wood samples of aspens (both infected and healthy ones). The conks are simply collected by hand, the bark/wood is collected by sterilized instruments (chisels, drill bits, etc depending on accessibility of trunks). Bark squares are collected as patches 5X5 cm and wounds would be covered by wax after collection. Each tree will be sampled in disposable gloves to prevent any contamination. We would need approximately 10 conks and bark/wood from their trees, and bark/wood from 10-20 healthy looking trees.
Funding agency: 
NSF