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Mycorrhizal fungus BJ1, a new species of Tulasnella sp.: its biological characteristics and promoting effect on seed germination of Bletilla striata

Summary

Researchers discovered a new type of fungus called Tulasnella sp. BJ1 that forms beneficial partnerships with Bletilla striata, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant. When this fungus was used with the plant’s seeds, germination rates and seedling growth improved significantly compared to seeds grown alone. The fungus helps by producing growth-promoting substances like plant hormones and breaking down nutrients that the developing plants can absorb. This finding offers a practical method to grow more B. striata plants efficiently for medicinal use.

Background

Bletilla striata is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with significant therapeutic value, but wild populations have been depleted due to overexploitation. Mycorrhizal fungi are essential for orchid seed germination and growth in natural environments. Symbiotic germination using mycorrhizal fungi offers an efficient propagation method for B. striata cultivation.

Objective

This study aimed to isolate and identify a mycorrhizal fungus from B. striata roots, characterize its biological properties, and evaluate its promoting effects on seed germination and seedling development of B. striata through symbiotic cultivation.

Results

BJ1 was confirmed as a new species of Tulasnella sp. capable of producing pectinase and protease, solubilizing inorganic phosphorus, and synthesizing IAA in the presence of L-tryptophan. By week 4, 74.23% of seeds in the symbiotic group reached stage 5 compared to 53.43% in the non-symbiotic group. Symbiotic seeds showed 2.2-fold greater length, 1.8-fold greater width, and 3.7-fold greater fresh weight than non-symbiotic controls.

Conclusion

Tulasnella sp. BJ1 significantly promotes B. striata seed germination and seedling growth through symbiotic colonization at the protocorm base. The synergistic effect of L-tryptophan and BJ1 further enhances IAA synthesis and growth acceleration. These findings indicate BJ1 has substantial potential for improving artificial propagation efficiency and seedling quality in B. striata cultivation and conservation.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Plant Science,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 40061032
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