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RESEARCH ARTICLE
Contents Vol 55(6)

Introduction, growth and persistence in situ of orchid mycorrhizal fungi

Penelope S. Hollick A B C , Jen A. McComb A and Kingsley W. Dixon B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A School of Biology and Biotechnology, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.

B Science Directorate, Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, Fraser Avenue, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia.

C Corresponding author. Email: Penelope.Hollick@murdoch.edu.au

Australian Journal of Botany 55(6) 665-672 https://doi.org/10.1071/BT06073
Submitted: 10 April 2006  Accepted: 14 May 2007   Published: 27 September 2007

Abstract

The introduction, growth and persistence of orchid mycorrhizal fungi in situ were studied by using a seed-baiting method. A mycorrhizal fungus from the carousel spider orchid, Caladenia arenicola (Hopper & A.P.Br.), was introduced to sites within an area from which the orchid and fungus were absent, adjacent to a natural population of C. arenicola. In the first growing season, the fungus grew up to 50 cm from its introduction point, usually persisted over the summer drought into the second season and even into the third season, stimulating germination and growth to tuber formation of the seeds in the baits. Watering the inoculated areas significantly increased seed germination. This suggests that it is possible to reintroduce the mycorrhizal fungi either before or together with seeds of orchid species needing re-establishment in an area.


Acknowledgements

This research was carried out while the principal author was receiving an Australian Postgraduate Award. Advice was given by Dr Andrew Batty and Dr Mark Brundrett, and field and technical assistance by Ethel Lucas, Philip Shaw, Rob Holland and Frank Turnbull.


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