Increased temperature and drought do not threaten the mycelium of Tuber melanosporum in Mediterranean regions

Social Impact Statement Drought and high temperatures are expected to increase in Europe, in particular in Mediterranean regions, where black truffle ( Tuber melanosporum Vittad .) is mainly harvested. This fungus, living in symbiotic ectomycorrhizal association with trees, is important in forest ecosystems and agricultural diversification. Here, we show through mathematical modelling that summer high temperatures and drought enhance truffle mycelial growth in the soil. While previous studies have suggested fruit bodies' productivity in Mediterranean regions is endangered by climate change, our results suggest instead that black truffle mycelium survival and growth may not be threatened by rising temperatures and drought conditions.