Ectomycorrhizal fungi associated with the roots of planted Eucalyptus grandis in northeastern Brazil

Abstract

Eucalyptus, like other members of the family Myrtaceae, form symbiotic associations with various ectomycorrhizal fungi. The purpose of this study was to assess the ectomycorrhizal taxa associated with Eucalyptus plantations in the municipalities of Gloria do Goita and Moreno, Pernambuco, Brazil. Root-tip samples were collected from Eucalyptus grandis trees to identify the ectomycorrhizal and other root-associated fungi present. Twelve taxa of fungi were determined from the root-tips collected in these two plantations. Four taxa were identified to species, and five were identified as putative ectomycorrhizae. Scleroderma albidum was the only species found both fruiting and in the root-tip study. Overall, species of Tomentella were the dominant taxa present in the two study areas.