Characterization and spatial distribution of ectomycorrhizas colonizing aspen clones released in an experimental field

Abstract

Ectomycorrhizas (EM) from aspen clones released on an experimental field were characterized by morphotyping, restriction analysis and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing. In addition, their community structure and spatial distribution was analyzed. Among the 23 observed morphotypes, six mycobionts dominated, forming roughly 90% of all ectomycorrhizas: Cenococcum geophilum, Laccaria sp., Phialocephala fortinii, two different Thelephoraceae, and one member of the Pezizales. The three most common morphotypes had an even spatial distribution, reflecting the high degree of homogeneity of the experimental field. The distribution of three other morphotypes was correlated with the distances to the spruce forest and deciduous trees bordering the experimental field. These two patterns allowed two invasion strategies of ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) to be recognized, the success of which depends on adaptation of the EMF to local ecological conditions.