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Diversity and effect of Trichoderma isolated from the roots of Pinus densiflora within the fairy ring of pine mushroom (Tricholoma matsutake)

Summary

This research examines the different types of Trichoderma fungi found in soil and roots where pine mushrooms grow. Scientists identified nine different Trichoderma species and tested how their chemical compounds affect pine mushroom growth. Some Trichoderma species helped pine mushrooms grow better, while others hindered growth. These findings suggest that managing beneficial Trichoderma could help improve pine mushroom cultivation in the future.

Background

Pine mushroom (Tricholoma matsutake) is an important ectomycorrhizal fungus valued as a food delicacy in Asia. Recent studies show that fairy rings of pine mushroom have distinctive fungal communities, suggesting that other fungi influence pine mushroom growth. Trichoderma is a saprotrophic fungus commonly found in pine roots within these fairy rings.

Objective

This study focused on determining the diversity of Trichoderma species isolated from pine roots within pine mushroom fairy rings and examining how these species affect pine mushroom growth. The researchers aimed to understand the ecological relationships between saprotrophic Trichoderma fungi and the ectomycorrhizal pine mushroom.

Results

Nine Trichoderma species from 261 isolates were identified with Trichoderma spirale and T. songyi as dominant species. Trichoderma communities varied geographically. Metabolites from five species significantly influenced pine mushroom growth, with two species promoting growth (T. songyi and T. spirale) and three suppressing growth (T. hamatum, T. polypori, and T. pyramidale).

Conclusion

Various Trichoderma species co-exist within pine mushroom fairy rings and influence pine mushroom growth. The results suggest that saprotrophic fungi can have positive effects on ectomycorrhizal fungi physiology. Introduction of beneficial Trichoderma metabolites may improve prospects for successful pine mushroom cultivation in the future.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 30403694, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205900
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