Soluble Carbohydrates in Mycorrhized and Non-Mycorrhized Fine Roots of Spruce Seedlings

Abstract

Abstract We present results on the compartmentation of carbohydrates such as sucrose, glucose, fructose, and mannose in different parts of an ectomycorrhiza established between Picea abies and Amanita muscaria and compare it with non-mycorrhized fine roots. Lyophilized mycorrhizas and fine roots (< 2 mm length) were dissected into about 0.5 mm thick slices which represent 4 zones of different physiological functions. The total amount of the analyzed carbohydrates was about 30% higher in non-mycorrhized (n-myc) compared to mycorrhized (myc) fine roots, with sucrose being the dominating sugar in both root types. A longitudinal distinction of sucrose pools showed lowest levels in the middle parts of a mycorrhiza, which represent areas of most intense symbiotic interaction. Fine roots without fungal infection did not show longitudinal variations in sugar content.