Hyphal contribution to water uptake in mycorrhizal plants as affected by the fungal species and water status

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3054.1995.tb00865.x
• Publication Date: 2006-05-01T07:35:29Z
• Authors: J. M. Ruiz‐Lozano; R. Azcón
• Keywords: Glomus; Water Transport; Stomatal Conductance

Vesicular‐arbuscular mycorrhizae may increase resistance of plants to drought by a number mechanisms, such as increased root hydraulic conductivity, stomatal regulation, hyphal water uptake and osmotic adjustment. However, substantial contribution vesicular‐arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) hyphae has not been demonstrated unequivocally. The objective this investigation was examine the from two VAM fungi transport host plant. Lettuce ( Lactuca sativa L.) were grown in container divided screen into compartments. One occupied roots, other only hyphae, which permitted pass. Roots colonized Glomus deserticola or fasciculatum , left uninoculated but P‐supplemented. Water supplied compartment at distance 10 cm (root). CO 2 exchange rate, water‐use efficiency, transpiration, conductance photosynthetic phosphorus‐use efficiency P‐amended control evaluated three levels application compartment. Results indicate that much taken up plants. plants, had access compartment, higher nutrient contents. G. functioned efficiently under limitation mycelium ‐colonized very sensitive medium. This discrepancy behaviour reflects various abilities each fungus according soil levels. Different specific mycelia also expressed terms nutritional leaf gas‐exchange parameters. caused significant net photosynthesis rate use compared P‐fertilized In contrast, treatment most efficient affecting N, P K nutrition, transpiration. Since no differences intra‐ extra‐radical extension endophytes found, results demonstrate can take there are considerable variations both these mechanisms involved their effects on plant relations.