Mycorrhizal Mediated Partitioning of Phosphorus: Ectomycorrhizal (Populus x canescens x Paxillus involutus) Potential to Exploit Simultaneously Organic and Mineral Phosphorus Sources

Many natural and anthropogenic soils are phosphorus (P) limited often due to larger P stocks sequestered in forms of low bioavailability. One the strategies overcome this shortage lies symbiosis plants with mycorrhizal fungi, increasing plant uptake these hardly accessible sources. However, little is known about fungal mediated partitioning differently available forms, which could contribute more efficient use by and, thereby, reduce competition for soil P. This study aimed investigate from bioavailable sources ectomycorrhiza. For that, we conducted a rhizotrone using Populus x canescens its compatible ectomycorrhizal fungus Paxillus involutus . Four different [ ortho -phosphate (oP), adenosine monophosphate (AMP), hydroxyapatite (HAP), oP bound goethite (gP)] or only HAP as 1P control were supplied separate compartments, where partner had access The amount specific was increased according their decreasing In order distinguish between sources, applied 33 track incorporation non-destructive analysis via digital autoradiography. Our results show that an able utilize all provided associate. acquisition timing determined most AMP over gP, mixed pool single source. contrast, magnitude defined source provision additional nitrogen, hence well complexity, gP least favorable form. Nevertheless, present provide evidence ectomycorrhiza has potential occupy fundamental niches various differing bioavailability, indicating being generalist nutrition can facilitate adaptation nutritional settings soil.