Abstract
We describe the ectomycorrhizal (ECM) root tips and the diversity of mycorrhizal fungal species at three English oak (Quercus robur) sites (two 120 year old sites and one 60 year old site). The three oak stands in decline, located in western Poland, were characterized by a low degree of vital ECM colonization: 30.2%, 29.1% and 25.6% at Krotoszyn (K), Piaski (P) and Karczma Borowa (KB), respectively. DNA (ITS) barcoding revealed a total of 18 ECM fungal species. Based on exploration types, ectomycorrhizae were classified with respect to ecologically relevant features. The contact type was significantly correlated with C:N and Corg, while the short distance type was correlated with Ca, phosphorus (P2O5) and pH. The medium distance exploration type was significantly correlated with fine-grained soil particle size fractions: coarse silt (0.05–0.02 mm) and fine silt (0.02–0.002 mm), and clay (<0.002 mm). The long distance type showed a similar pattern to the medium distance smooth type, but was also correlated with nitrate (N). The values of biometric root parameters of oak trees at the analysed forest sites were arranged as follows: K > P > KB, and were opposite to the condition of the tree crowns. A negative correlation of vital ECM root tip abundance with the crown health status of oaks was observed, whereas higher ECM diversity reflected better crown health in the oak stands studied.
Highlights
Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) is a widely distributed tree in Europe, occurring from northernSpain to southern Scandinavia and from Ireland to Eastern Europe, and is among the deciduous tree species with the highest economic importance [1,2]
The analysed oak stands in decline were characterized by a low degree of ECM colonisation, with an average of 28.5% of the root tips categorized as vital ECM (VM)
Mycorrhizal Colonisation with an average of 28.5% of the root tips categorized as vital ECM (VM)
Summary
Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) is a widely distributed tree in Europe, occurring from northernSpain to southern Scandinavia and from Ireland to Eastern Europe, and is among the deciduous tree species with the highest economic importance [1,2]. With respect to growth and survival, Q. robur is assessed as waterlogging-tolerant, and can grow even in floodplain forests [4]. The oak decline syndrome is deemed to have a complex aetiology, involving dynamic interactions between trees (e.g., strong competition) along with abiotic and biotic factors [10]. This phenomenon is believed to be a consequence of predisposing factors, including soil features (such as poor fertility, drainage, moisture holding capacity or compaction) and the role of the rhizosphere microbiota [9]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
