Distribution patterns and driving forces of soil fungal communities along elevational gradients on two snow mountains in the Hengduan Mountain Range

Abstract

Despite extensive research, fungal diversity along elevation gradients remains difficult to generalize. In this study we examined soil fungal diversity and network stability on two snow mountains in the Hengduan Mountain Range of China and identified distinct biodiversity patterns. On Meili Snow Mountain, fungal ASV richness declined significantly with altitude, with MAT identified as the primary driver. On Baima Snow Mountain, richness exhibited a hump-shaped pattern, with TN as the key influencing factor. Regression analysis and structural equation modelling revealed that elevation indirectly influenced fungal richness by affecting climate, vegetation, and soil properties. Despite similar climatic conditions, elevational patterns of fungal communities on the two mountains are driven by distinct local factors: Fungal communities on Meili Snow Mountain are mainly driven by NDVI, whereas those on Baima Snow Mountain are mainly shaped by soil fertility. Co-occurrence network analysis further indicates that fungal network complexity on Meili Snow Mountain increases with altitude, while fungal network stability follows a U-shaped distribution driven by species interactions and environmental filtering. In contrast, on Baima Snow Mountain, fungal network complexity peaks at mid-altitudes and stability shows no significant correlation with altitude, suggesting strong niche adaptability. These findings highlight the complex effects of elevation on fungal diversity and networks, providing new insights into biodiversity in mountain ecosystem and guidance for ecosystem management under climate change.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

soil fungal diversity / elevational gradients / co-occurrence network / network stability / mountain ecosystem

Highlight

	● Soil fungal communities were characterized in two geographically close snow mountains.
	● Unique fungal diversity patterns and environmental drivers on the two mountains were revealed.
	● One mountain displayed a consistent decrease in fungal diversity with elevation, in contrast to the hump-shaped pattern in another mountain.
	● Soil fungal network stability also varies with elevation.
	● The study highlights the complex impact of elevation on fungal diversity and networks.

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