Arbuscular mycorrhizal associations in the southern Simpson Desert
Date
2001
Authors
O'Connor, P.
Smith, S.
Smith, F.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Australian Journal of Botany, 2001; 49(4):493-499
Statement of Responsibility
O'Connor, Patrick J ; Smith, Sally E ; Smith, F. Andrew
Conference Name
DOI
Abstract
<jats:p>
The plants of the Simpson Desert are adapted to one of the driest regions on
the Australian continent and grow in generally nutrient-poor soils. Surveys
were conducted at three sites in the southern Simpson Desert to determine the
arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) status of 52 species from 28 families of annual
and perennial plants. Roots from all plants were examined for the presence of
internal and external hyphae, vesicles, arbuscules and coils to determine
presence and extent of mycorrhizal colonisation. Of the plant species
surveyed, 38 (73%) had formed mycorrhizal associations. The AM status
of 47 species is reported for the first time, including of members of the
Frankeniaceae and Myoporaceae families. No correlations were found between
site (dune or interdune) or life form and the number of species forming AM
associations. Two species in the normally non-mycorrhizal Chenopodiaceae,
Salsola kali L. and
Sclerolaena diacantha (Nees.) Benth. had mycorrhiza.
Arbuscules and/or vesicles were observed in the roots of all mycorrhizal
plants except three species, Solanum ellipticum R.Br.,
Gnephosis eriocarpa (F.Muell.) Benth. and
Eremophila longifolia (R.Br.) F.Muell., in which only
coils of hyphae were observed.</jats:p>