Mycorrhizas in Nothofagus From South America: What Do We Know From Nursery and Field Experiences?

Abstract

Nothofagus are the dominant tree species in the Subantarctic Temperate Forests from Argentina and Chile. They are usually colonized by abundant and diverse ectomycorrhizae. Due to the considerable ecological and economic importance of Nothofagus and its ectomycorrhizae, several researchers have used different experimental approaches to study this symbiosis and the influence of diverse biotic and abiotic factors on it. This chapter gives an overview of what has been done up to the moment to characterize the ectomycorrhizal symbiosis in different South American Nothofagus species. First, we present how nursery approaches have been used not only to address the relationship between Nothofagus seedlings and ectomycorrhizae during domestication programs but also to study physiological plant traits and ecosystem processes related to this symbiosis. Then, we briefly describe and discuss studies performed directly in the field, either in natural or managed ecosystems, with a special emphasis on factors driving the ectomycorrhizal symbiosis. This chapter summarizes some of the most relevant achievements in this important field of study and highlights some aspects that should be worth considering in the near future.