In vitro Symbiosis between Gastrodia elata Blume (Orchidaceae) and Armillaria Kummer (Tricholomataceae) Species Isolated from the Orchid Tuber

Abstract

An Armillaria species isolated from Gastrodia elata was identified as A. gallica based on morphological characteristics of basidiomata and mating test. Symbiosis between G. elata and A. gallica was confirmed by using two-member cultures. Hyphal coils of the fungal symbiont were formed in the cortical cells of tubers and isolated from their cortical cells. Length and weight of fungus-infected tubers were significantly higher than those of non fungus-infected tubers and control (P < 0.05). These indicated that G. elata has a mycorrhizal symbiotic relation to A. gallica.