Formation of Vesicular-Arbuscular Mycorrhizae in Atriplex gardneri (Chenopodiaceae): Seasonal Response in a Cold Desert

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Abstract
Arbuscules and total VA [vesicular-arbuscular] mycorrhizal colonization [by Glomus microcarpum and G. fasciculatum] in A. gardneri were observed during the spring and summer of 1982. Arbuscules were observed in April (25% of secondary and tertiary root length intercepts) but were not found in June. Total VA mycorrhizal colonization was 78% of fine root length intercepts in April, 28% in June and 3% by July. The phenology of the fungus was correlated with that of the plant; rainfall and temperature dictated periods of active growth, nutrient uptake and senescence in the symbionts.