Advances in methods and practices of ectomycorrhizal research (Chapter 19)

Abstract

Ectomycorrhiza (ECM) is a symbiotic association of fungi with the feeder roots of higher plants in which both the partners are mutually benefited and indeed the association appears to be significant for the existence of both the partners. The majority of ECM synthesizing fungi belong to the classes Basidiomycetes and Ascomycetes that form fruiting bodies like mushrooms, puffballs, coral fungi, toadstools, truffles, etc. Though the benefits offered by ectomycorrhizal fungi are extensive, they are very sensitive. The vegetative mycelium is fragile and needs to be handled with suitable techniques and utmost care. The conventional methods of fungal isolation and cultivation are central to handling ECM fungi. The scientific community in the field of ECM research has contributed immensely toward advancement in methodologies or the techniques employed. The variations could be the simpler basic methods like the subculturing methods, the design of culture media, formulations of fungal inoculum, methods assessing mycorrhizae, to more advanced methods that range from arrays of molecular techniques like PCR, RFLP, DGGE, and temperature gradient gel electrophoresis to transcriptomic and proteomic analysis. Ectomycorrhizal fungi are not only applicable as bioinoculants but also form an important source of biological pigments, antibiotic compounds, and edible mushrooms with the known fact that they are nutritionally enriched. The methods described in this chapter provide detailed knowledge and enhanced applicability of ECM association for sustainable development.