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Spatio-temporal Dynamic of Tuber magnatum Mycelium in Natural Truffle Grounds

Summary

This research examined how the valuable Italian white truffle grows and spreads underground throughout different seasons. Scientists found that the fungus creates patches of growth in the soil, with the highest concentration near where truffles form. The amount of fungal growth varies significantly with seasons – highest in spring, lowest during hot summers, and increasing again in fall when truffles develop. Impact on everyday life: • Helps truffle hunters better understand where and when to search for these valuable fungi • Provides guidance for maintaining and protecting natural truffle grounds • Suggests climate change could affect future truffle production • Offers insights for potential truffle cultivation methods • Demonstrates the importance of seasonal timing in truffle-related activities

Background

Tuber magnatum produces the world’s most expensive truffles but has proven extremely difficult to cultivate, with production restricted to specific natural habitats in Italy and the Balkans. Unlike other truffle species, T. magnatum has poor in vitro growth and its mycorrhizas are very rare and difficult to detect in the field. Recent development of real-time PCR assays has enabled quantification and tracking of T. magnatum mycelium in soil.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the spatial distribution of T. magnatum extra-radical mycelium in soil productive patches and examine its seasonal dynamics. The research sought to determine how soil properties, habitat conditions and seasonal climate affect T. magnatum mycelial biomass in natural truffle grounds.

Results

T. magnatum mycelium was detected in all soil samples taken at fruiting points, with biomass ranging from 3.93-6.87 μg/g soil. Mycelium quantity decreased significantly with distance from fruiting points. Seasonal fluctuations showed highest mycelium levels in early spring, significant decreases in summer during hot/dry conditions, and increases again in autumn concentrated at fruiting points. Climate conditions, particularly summer temperatures and rainfall, appeared to strongly influence mycelial biomass levels.

Conclusion

The study revealed that T. magnatum forms patchy distributions with heterogeneous spatial and temporal mycelium distribution within productive areas. Mycelium levels are highest near fruiting points during the fruiting season but redistribute more uniformly in spring. Summer conditions significantly impact mycelial biomass, suggesting sensitivity to climate changes. These findings provide important insights for evaluating truffle grounds and understanding T. magnatum ecology.
  • Published in:PLOS One,
  • Study Type:Field Study,
  • Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115921
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