Lycoperdon perlatum from a coniferous forest forms an ectomycorrhizal relation with and increases drought resistance of Populus × canadensis ‘Zhongliao 1’
摘要
Plant–fungal symbiotic associations benefit initial plant adaptation to droughty terrestrial ecosystems. Although information on mycorrhizal and endophytic fungi in drought-resistant mechanisms in crops and conifer species is increasing, additional information is needed on novel ectomycorrhizal fungi that promote adaptation in broad-leaf species. In this study, the effect of the ectomycorrhizal association formed by Lycoperdon perlatum isolated from coniferous forest soil and Populus × canadensis ‘Zhongliao 1’ on drought resistance was investigated. After colonization, ectomycorrhizal symbiosis was detected in poplar roots, and simultaneously typical characteristic fungal mantle and Hartig net structures were observed in the cross-section of ectomycorrhiza under laser scanning confocal microscopy. Fungal colonization led to increases in plant growth and regulation of root system architecture. Under drought stress, accumulations of soluble sugar and proline increased in colonized plants. Furthermore, the plant–fungal association increased antioxidant enzyme activity, which inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased malondialdehyde content. The results of the study indicated that the ectomycorrhizal symbiosis facilitated drought resistance by both substantially increasing the content of osmoregulatory substances and diminishing excess ROS. Thus, ectomycorrhizal fungi from coniferous forests can establish associations that increase the adaptation of broad-leaf species to the environment.