In summary, we propose merging the yet-separated
disciplines of mycology and dendroecology, including wood
anatomy, to generate scientific synergy for detecting and
disentangling biotic, abiotic, and combined edaphic factors
of the mutualistic relation between thousands of ectomycorrhizal
fungi and their perennial partners. Conceptual advancement of this alliance is further envisioned to understanding
better and predict forest feedbacks to the
terrestrial carbon cycle and global climate system.