Population dynamics of <i>Endogone</i> spores in soil

Abstract

A flotation–adhesion technique is described for the rapid recovery of Endogone spores using small (5–10 g) soil samples. The method proved 94–98% efficient in the recovery of spores from Ontario soils. Spore counts averaged 20–92 per gram with exceptional individual counts reaching 132. Effects of soil type, soil depth, and "host" plant on spore populations are discussed.