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Published on: March 14, 2025
In vitro mycorrhization of pear (Pyrus communis)
Mariem Lotfi1,2, Kalyanne Fernandez3, Pieter Vermeir4
1Research Unit on Agrobiodiversity (UR13AGR05), Department of Horticultural Sciences, Higher Agronomic Institute, IRESA-University of Sousse, 4042, Chott-Mariem, Sousse, Tunisia.
Abstract:
The Mycelium Donor Plant system (MDP) was adapted to study the time course of the colonization of Pyrus communis by Rhizophagus irregularis under in vitro conditions. Isolated germinated spores did not colonize pear roots. Inoculum composed of R. irregularis spores/mycelium associated with chicory root fragments was used to inoculate Medicago truncatula which became thereafter the MDP of pear plantlets. Typical intraradical structures (hyphae, arbuscules, spores/vesicles) and appressoria were observed in the pear roots. During acclimatization, the pear plants formed a densely branched root system. R. irregularis colonization not only altered the root architecture but also changed the nutrient composition of the acclimatized pear plantlets.
Insights
The Mycelium Donor Plant system successfully enabled Rhizophagus irregularis colonization of pear roots, altering root architecture and nutrient content. This study demonstrates an effective method for researching arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi interactions in plants.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Mycology
- Agronomy
Background:
- Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbiotic relationships with most plants, enhancing nutrient uptake.
- Rhizophagus irregularis is a widely studied AMF species.
- Studying AMF colonization in perennial plants like Pyrus communis (pear) can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt the Mycelium Donor Plant (MDP) system for in vitro study of Rhizophagus irregularis colonization in Pyrus communis.
- To investigate the time course and effects of R. irregularis colonization on pear plantlets.
Main Methods:
- Adaptation of the Mycelium Donor Plant (MDP) system using Medicago truncatula as an intermediary host.
- Inoculation of pear plantlets with R. irregularis via the established MDP.
- Microscopic observation of root colonization and analysis of plant nutrient composition.
Main Results:
- Isolated R. irregularis spores did not colonize pear roots, but inoculum from an MDP system did.
- Typical intraradical fungal structures (hyphae, arbuscules, spores) and appressoria were observed in pear roots.
- R. irregularis colonization altered pear root architecture and changed the nutrient composition of the plantlets.
Conclusions:
- The MDP system is effective for studying R. irregularis colonization in Pyrus communis.
- Rhizophagus irregularis colonization significantly impacts pear plant root development and nutritional status.
- This method facilitates research into AMF-plant interactions in non-model perennial species.
