I am analyzing fine roots of U. laevis. Under a dissecting microscope I can observe ectomycorrhiza (see photo). As I should decide whether roots are dead or live based on morphological traits, I would say that black mycorrhiza is dead. But today I read that some mycorrhizal fungi are just normally black colored. How can I deside whether mycorrhiza is black because of species properties or because it is dead?
On the photo you can see transparent mycorrhiza in the upper part and black mycorrhiza in the bottom. Both mycorrhizas belong to the same root.
P.S. Sorry for the quality of the photo.
Broadly speaking, there are two main kinds of mycorrhiza: Arbuscular mycorrhizas penetrate the cells of their host's roots, and most plants develop this type. Ectomycorrhizas surround the roots without penetrating them. Trees may form either type, and some form both. In each case there is cell-to-cell contact between the plant and the fungus, allowing nutrient transfer to take place. An ectomycorrhiza is a form of symbiotic relationship that occurs between a fungal symbiont and the roots of various plant species. The mycobiont tends to be predominantly from the phyla Basidiomycota and Ascomycota, although a few are represented in the phylum Zygomycota.
I dont think, ectomycorrhiza are dead...
Hi Anastacia,
As you said, some species are black. The diversity of colours in ectomycorrhizae is really huge! I agree with Edith that in your picture the mycorrhizae are alive. Usually old ectomycorrhizas are wizened, dried up, senescent and they break down easily.
Good luck with your roots!
Yeah, it is alive. Are you using any stain like Trypan blue for AM fungi? It might be easy to visualize.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Philosophy
- Esthetics
- Interpretation