Data from: Environmental modulation of plant mycorrhizal traits in the global flora

Mycorrhizal symbioses are known to strongly influence plant performance,
structure plant communities and shape ecosystem dynamics. Plant
mycorrhizal traits, such as those characterizing mycorrhizal type
(arbuscular (AM), ecto-, ericoid, or orchid mycorrhiza) and status
(obligately (OM), facultatively (FM), or non-mycorrhizal) offer valuable
insight into plant belowground functionality. Here, we compile available
plant mycorrhizal trait information and global occurrence data (~100
million records) for 11,770 vascular plant species. Using a plant
phylogenetic mega-tree and high-resolution climatic and edaphic data
layers, we assess phylogenetic and environmental correlates of plant
mycorrhizal traits. We find that plant mycorrhizal type is more
phylogenetically conserved than plant mycorrhizal status, while
environmental variables (both climatic and edaphic; notably soil texture)
explain more variation in mycorrhizal status, especially FM. The
previously underestimated role of environmental conditions has
far-reaching implications for our understanding of ecosystem functioning
under changing climatic and soil conditions.