Structure and ontogeny of Betula alleghaniensis – Pisolithus tinctorius ectomycorrhizae

Abstract

The ontogeny and ultrastructure of ectomycorrhizae synthesized between Betula alleghaniensis (yellow birch) and Pisolithus tinctorius, a broad host range fungus, were studied to determine the structural modifications in both symbionts during ectomycorrhiza establishment. A number of stages, including initial contact of hyphae with the root surface, early mantle formation, and mature mantle formation, were distinguished. Interactions between hyphae and root hairs were frequent. As a paraepidermal Hartig net developed, root epidermal cells elongated in a radial direction, but wall ingrowths were not formed. Repeated branching of Hartig net hyphae resulted in extensive fine branches and the compartmentalization of hyphal cytoplasm. Nuclei and elongated mitochondria were frequently located in the narrow cytoplasmic compartments, and [Formula: see text] thickenings developed along walls of cortical cells in primary roots.