A Complete Review on Ericoid Mycorrhiza: An Understudied Fungus in the Ericaceae Family

Abstract

Ericoid mycorrhiza (ErM) is an unexplored and understudied member of the mycorrhizal world, surprisingly belonging to Ascomycota and Basidiomycota instead of Glomeromycota (the phylum comprising fungi forming associations with higher plants). ErM obtained its etymology due to its symbiotic relationship with members of the Ericaceae Family. Just like any other mycorrhiza, ErM also helps its hosts through nitrogen uptake and phosphorus bioavailability and provides defense to host plants against various phytopathogens. It also takes part in the decomposition of organic matter and depolymerization of complex substances. These mycorrhizae are distributed across all continents except Antarctica. The majority of culturable ErM is spread across England, Australia, Canada, the United States etc. This review focuses on the literature survey on ErM, its taxonomy, and diversity alongside its functions. Our review also sheds light on the host range of the ericoid fungi, wherein, out of all the hosts, Salal (Gautheria shallon) has been identified as one of the most promising ones.