Ectomycorrhiza Formation by the Operculate Discomycete <i>Sphaerosporella Brunnea</i> (<i>Pezizales</i>)

Abstract

The carbonicolous discomycete, Sphaerosporella brunnea, formed ectomycorrhizae with jack pine (Pinus banksiana) in monoxenic cultures and in open containers. In addition, mycorrhizae were formed with species of Picea, Larix, and Populus. The mycorrhizae were characterized by thin mantles and large diameter hyphal cells with Woronin bodies at the septa. Sphaerosporella brunnea is unusual as a mycorrhizal symbiont due to its taxonomic position, carbonicolous nature, very rapid growth rate, and ease of ascospore germination.