Mycorrhizal associations in Polylepis woodlands of Central Argentina.

MENOYO, E.; BECERRA, A.G.; RENISON, D.

CANADIAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY

NRC Canada

Año: 2007 vol. 85 p. 526 - 531

0008-4026

Polylepis woodlands are one of the most threatened mountain ecosystems of South America and their restoration is a high priority. In order to assess the mycorrhizal status in Polylepis woodlands of “Quebrada del Condorito” National Park (Córdoba Mountains, central Argentina), we examined the roots of 22 plant species, belonging to 14 families and determined morphological types of arbuscular mycorrhiza (Arum- and Paris-type) and colonization level. The 22 species were colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and dark septate endophytes (DSEs). Different AM mycorrhizal structures and colonization patterns were observed although Paris-type colonization was predominant. Fourteen plant species are reported for the first time as hosts of AM fungi. We conclude that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and dark septate endophyte hosts are widespread in the Polylepis woodlands of Central Argentina and should receive special attention in future revegetation programs.