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Evaluating the effectiveness of Pisolithus tinctorius in enhancing the Eucalyptus’ resistance to salt stress

Summary

Scientists isolated a beneficial fungus called Pisolithus tinctorius that can help eucalyptus trees survive in salty soil. When seedlings were treated with this fungus, they grew much better and were more resistant to salt stress compared to untreated plants. This discovery could help restore salt-damaged lands and make eucalyptus plantations more productive in challenging environments.

Background

Afforestation projects on saline lands using Eucalyptus trees and ectomycorrhizal fungi are important for ecological restoration. Pisolithus sp. is an ectomycorrhizal fungus that may improve plant tolerance to salt stress through symbiotic associations with tree roots.

Objective

To isolate and identify Pisolithus sp., evaluate its tolerance to varying pH, temperature, and salinity conditions, and assess its effectiveness in enhancing salt stress resistance in Eucalyptus globulus seedlings grown in sandy soil.

Results

Pisolithus tinctorius (GenBank accession OM125275) showed optimal growth at pH 5.8, 28°C, and 4% NaCl. Inoculated seedlings demonstrated significantly higher shoot height (55.67 cm), root length (42.33 cm), and biomass compared to control under 6 dS/m salinity. Mycorrhizal seedlings showed improved nutrient uptake and proline accumulation under salt stress.

Conclusion

Pisolithus tinctorius effectively enhances Eucalyptus globulus tolerance to salt stress through improved growth, nutrient acquisition, and osmoregulation. These findings support the use of appropriate ectomycorrhizal fungal strains for afforesting saline-affected lands and promoting sustainable ecological restoration.
  • Published in:AMB Express,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/s13568-024-01799-w, PMID: 39755763
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