In-vitro Symbiotic Germination of Seeds of Five Mycoheterotrophic Gastrodia Orchids with Mycena and Marasmiaceae Fungi

This research investigated how certain fungi help rare orchid species germinate and grow. The scientists found that specific fungi are essential partners for these orchids in their early life stages, much like how human babies need specific nutrients to develop properly. This discovery has important real-world implications: • Helps protect endangered orchid species by understanding their growth requirements • Provides methods for growing rare orchids in laboratory settings • Advances our understanding of how plants and fungi work together in nature • Could lead to improved cultivation techniques for other orchid species • Demonstrates the importance of preserving both plant and fungal species for ecosystem health