Diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in natural and disturbed Polylepis australis forests in Central Argentina

BECERRA, A.; CABELLO, M. & RENISON D

Brazil

Conferencia; ICOM 6 International Conference on Mycorrhiza; 2009

Forests dominated by Polylepis belong to one of the most endangered tropical and subtropical high mountain forest ecosystems of the world. One of the most important groups of microorganisms in ecosystems for its implication on plant-soil processes and restoration of degraded soils, are the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) (Glomeromycota). AMF diversity is severely affected by disturbance to which some AMF are particularly sensitive to human activities. We evaluate the diversity of AMF of P. australis in three forests: a semi-natural forest which is relatively undisturbed (Quebrada del Condorito National Park) and two disturbed forests areas (Los Gigantes). An inventory of AMF spores was done taking samples during winter. Results show that there is a high AMF diversity in the undisturbed semi-natural forest. Results also pointed out that spores belonging to Glomus spp. (G. brohultti; G. mosseae) predominate in disturbed forests (75%); meanwhile Acaulospora spp. (A. bireticulata; A. mellea) in semi-natural forests (60%). Considering the predominance of AMF in P. australis woodlands and the potential benefits that these associations may bring to plant establishment, AMF should receive special attention in reforestation projects for these woodlands.