Impact of three distinct mycorrhizal species on Cedrus libani seedling development and nutrient uptake

Abstract

Aim of study: In semi-arid afforestation sites, the study aimed to create mycorrhizal seedlings with high vitality, health, and tolerance to harsh environments. The study's hypotheses state that mycorrhizal inoculation will improve Cedrus libani (Taurus cedar) seedlings' growth characteristics, nutrition, root colonization, and mycorrhizal reliance. Area of study: The Eastern Mediterranean Research Institute laboratory and greenhouse in Tarsus district-Mersin, Türkiye. Material and methods: The experiment involved inoculation of three ectomycorrhizal fungal species (Lactarius delicious, Hebeloma crustuliniforme, Tricholoma ustale) collected from natural cedar stands on to cedar seedlings grown in two different substrates (sterilized, non-sterilized. Inoculation was carried out by dipping the roots of Cedrus libani A. Rich (Taurus cedar) seedlings into mycorrhizal mycelia. Main results: Cedar seedlings infected with mycorrhiza exhibited a greater biomass ratio in comparison to the control seedlings. Substrate sterilization increased seedling growth variables. The highest growth, some nutrients such as N, P, K, Fe and Zn uptake, root colonization and mycorrhizal dependence occurred in seedlings with H. crustuliniforme and L. delicious. Research highlights: Although this study is limited to Taurus cedar-mycorrhiza combinations, it may also be applicable to different mycorrhizal fungal species and many other valuable host tree species. More research is needed on the adaptation of different mycorrhizal species to habitats to increase the success of afforestation efforts in arid and semi-arid regions.