Interplant communication is of vital importance for plant performance in natural environments. Mycorrhizal fungi have emerged as key contributors to the below ground communication between plants. These mutualistic fungi form connections between the roots of plants via their hyphae, known as common mycorrhizal networks (CMNs). These hyphal networks are thought to be important ways for the exchange of signals between plants. This paper reviews the evidence for CMN-based transfer of semiochemicals between plants upon exposure to pathogen infection, herbivory or mechanical damage. Potential transport routes are explored, asking whether the fungi can actively contribute to the distribution of such signals within the network and discussing potential drivers for signal exchange. It is concluded that identification of the signals that are exchanged remains an important challenge for the future.
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