Our main topic is the study of orchid mycorrhiza. Orchids have always attracted the attention of scientists (e.g., Darwin's book on the mechanisms of orchid pollination) and although mycorrhiza is essential for the survival of these plants in nature, it remains very little studied. Our research focuses on the fluxes of substances between orchids and mycorrhizal fungi, be it carbon compounds (carbohydrates, amino acids...) or mineral nutrients (especially N and P). The main goal is to understand the impact of eutrophication on these plants and to optimize their cultivation methods for ex situ conservation.

Arbuscular mycorrhiza is a global phenomenon, comprising approximately 80% of higher plant species worldwide. In its study, we focus, among others, on the effects of xenobiotics (e.g. pesticides or pharmaceuticals). The research is largely applied, with applications in technologies such as seed coating or cultivation in soils with a high anthropogenic load.

Group leader: Milan Baláž