12 June 2025

Life from decay – a microcosm of biodiversity in a forest

This vibrant image highlights the intricate beauty of decaying wood, where moss thrives and life cycles continue within the forest ecosystem. It exemplifies the biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by decomposing matter, serving as both habitat and food for countless organisms. The decay process seen here is essential to nutrient cycling and forest health, demonstrating the critical role fungi, moss and wood play in sustaining these ecosystems.

In line with Teagasc’s vision for research and innovation, this image underscores the importance of recognising fungi’s role in ecosystem management and conservation efforts for a more sustainable future. This picture was taken in Oak Park Forest, where ash trials are underway to identify genotypes tolerant to ash dieback disease, aiming to restore ash populations in Ireland.

Photo and description by: Dheeraj Rathore

Teagasc project: AshforFuture – Breeding Ash for Dieback Disease Tolerance

Funding: Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine