Jena, 16.09.2026 – A research team at the Max-Planck-Institut für chemische Ökologie has discovered a previously unknown strategy used by certain fungi to neutralize the chemical defenses of spruce trees. The findings provide important starting points for modern forest protection in European regions.
- Topic: Interaction between bark beetle fungi and spruce defense
- Research Institution: Max-Planck-Institut für chemische Ökologie Jena
- Core Mechanism: Neutralization of defense mechanisms through the attachment of ribose
- Date: 16.09.2026
Scientific Mechanism: How fungi overcome spruce defenses
Bark beetles introduce specific fungi into trees, which facilitate entry into the host tree. Current investigations by the Jena researchers show that many of these fungi are capable of specifically metabolizing the toxic defense substances of spruce trees. A concrete chemical mechanism was identified: those fungi that were most effective at neutralizing spruce defense substances by attaching the sugar ribose showed particularly strong growth in the spruce bark.
Through this detoxification of the tree’s defenses, the colonization of the wood is significantly facilitated for the bark beetle and the associated fungus. Precise knowledge of these molecular processes opens up new perspectives for better understanding the mechanisms behind large-scale beetle infestations.
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Background on forest protection
The protection of spruce stands is becoming increasingly important in light of climate change and rising average temperatures. Since weakened trees produce less resin and can dedicate less energy to chemical defense, interdisciplinary research approaches like those of the Max-Planck-Institut are essential for developing long-term strategies to preserve endangered forest ecosystems.
Outlook for forest protection
The data obtained by the Jena ecologists is intended to help develop preventive measures against infestation by the spruce bark beetle and other bark beetle species in the future. Whether concrete protective agents for forestry can be derived from these biochemical findings remains to be seen in further studies.
Source:
Fungi neutralize spruce defense with sugar
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