Project Detail

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and dark septate endophytes colonising the roots of submerged aquatic macrophytes, Isoëtes lacustris and I. echinospora

Name:	Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and dark septate endophytes colonising the roots of submerged aquatic macrophytes, Isoëtes lacustris and I. echinospora
Researchers:	Sudová Radka (researcher)
Provider:	GAČR
Number:	P504/10/0781
Realization from:	2010
Realization to:	2013
Summary:	The aim of the project is to describe the occurrence and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and dark septate endophytes in the roots of submerged macrophytes, Isoëtes lacustris and I. echinospora (quillworts). The species under investigation are glacial relicts, which are critically endangered in the Czech Republic, growing there on the margin of their distribution range in only two acidified glacial lakes. The incidence of symbiotic fungi in quillwort roots was preliminarily demonstrated, however, their taxonomic identity and possible effects on plant growth remain unclear. Conventional techniques of mycorrhizal research, modern molecular approaches and experimental cultivation will be used in synergy to address these questions. The diversity of fungal communities will be studied in marginal as well as core populations of both plant species. In addition, comparison will be made between acidified and non-acidified lakes. The obtained data will provide novel information about unique fungal communities inhabiting the roots of submerged plants.