The southernmost myco-heterotrophic plant, Arachnitis uniflora: root morphology and anatomy

Root morphology and anatomy of the myco-heterotrophic Arachnitis uniflora (Corsiaceae) were studied in relation to their association with a Glomus species (Glomeromycota). The mycorrhizal features were studied in three distinctive stages of development: (i) shoot and flower restricted to a small, underground bud; (ii) shoot and flower bud up to 1.5 cm; and (iii) shoot and flower already withered. The hyphae penetrate through and between the epidermal and exodermal cells; the exodermis and outer cortical cells become colonized in an inter- and intracellular manner, with some coils being formed in these layers. The fungi colonize the middle cortex, where intracellular vesicles in bundles are abundant. Arbuscules are formed profusely at very early stages of development, while in older stages they almost disappear and abundant vesicles are formed. Except for some details, the pattern of root colonization corresponds to a Paris-type. Presence of storage substances (starch and oil) also was recorded. Starch is produced and stored within root cells, mainly in the outer and inner root cortex. In senescent stages, plant and fungal tissues collapse.