Abundance and distribution of Corallorhiza odontorhiza reflect variations in climate and ectomycorrhizae

• DOI: 10.1890/08-0729.1
• Publication Date: 2009-10-16T20:00:54Z
• Authors: Melissa K. McCormick; Dennis F. Whigham; John P. O'Neill; Janie J. Becker; Sarah Werner; Hanne N. Rasmussen; Thomas D. Bruns; D. Lee Taylor
• Keywords: Ectomycorrhizae

The abundance and reproductive activity of orchids have been linked to variations in weather conditions, but few investigators examined the relationships between orchid flowering dynamics distribution mycorrhizal fungi. We quantified individuals Corallorhiza odontorhiza , a mycoheterotrophic orchid, over 14‐year period mapped six 14 years. For two seasons, we conducted intensive extensive studies fungi that were associated with C. . annual plants was statistically related growing‐season precipitation winter temperature, within study plot appropriate host used DNA sequencing identify ectomycorrhizal root tips hosted Tomentella could potentially support found spp. distributed throughout on all tree species, including areas historically supported or no orchids. However, there fewer trees, total tips, hosting compared abundant Furthermore, one taxon dominated rhizomes never except immediately adjacent plants. This suggests reflects both presence “preferred” taxa roots. Results this research provide first indication relationship may be influenced by relative are sufficient growth particular fungal types especially good at supporting growth.