Fungal diversity from communities to genes

Abstract Fungi are hyperdiverse organisms and assemble in complex communities, characterized by high levels of species richness, turnover, and endemism. However, the origins and maintenance of such high diversity and the role environments play in fungal adaptation are still elusive. Traditionally, efforts to understand fungal diversity in their environment have been divided between studies at the species level and below species level, with separate disciplines such as community ecology and population genetics working independently and with little communication. Here I argue that linking these different approaches is required to fully document the diversity of fungi in nature. Understanding the patterns and mechanisms of fungal diversity and composition requires not only the study of species assemblies and ranges, but also relies on comprehending fungal intra-specific variation, dispersal and establishment, including identifying key traits influencing fitness. This implies better integration and cross-fertilization between disciplines addressing fungi at a multitude of biological levels, ranging from genes to whole communities. Such approach will yield direct links between variation, adaptation and environments and provide a much more comprehensive understanding of fungal diversity.