Tree species affinity of decomposer and ectomycorrhizal macrofungi in beech ( Fagus sylvatica L.), oak ( Quercus robur L.) and hornbeam ( Carpinus betulus L.) forests

Abstract

The affinity of 137 species of macrofungi for beech, oak and hornbeam was studied in pure stands of these trees during 1978–1987 in 175 forest sites in south Sweden. About half of the species occurred mainly or exclusively in one of the forest types (30 with beech, 16 with oak and 20 with hornbeam), with some dominance of species belonging to ectomycorrhizal genera. There was usually a distinct demarcation between taxa with high and average affinity values for tree species. Fungi with high affinity values were particularly well represented by Marasmius and Lacturius. On average, fungi growing on substrates in early stages of decay had higher affinity values than fungi on more decomposed substrates. Fungi with a high substrate or host specificity were also more particular about soil properties than those with a lower substrate or host specificity. Possible explanations for the affinity values are discussed.