Metagenomic characterization of native soil entomopathogenic fungi along the elevational slopes of Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania
This project aims to characterize the diversity, composition, and elevational distribution of native soil entomopathogenic fungi along the elevational gradients of the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania, using metagenomic approaches. Soil samples were collected across multiple elevation zones representing different land-use types and ecological conditions. High-throughput sequencing of fungal marker genes was employed to generate comprehensive profiles of soil fungal communities, with particular emphasis on entomopathogenic taxa of agricultural and ecological importance. The study seeks to enhance understanding of how elevation, environmental factors, and land-use practices shape the structure of soil entomopathogenic fungal communities in tropical montane ecosystems. Generated data will provide baseline information on native fungal biodiversity and support future applications in biological pest management, ecosystem conservation, and climate-resilient agriculture in East Africa.