Abstract
The potential of mycorrhizal rhizomorphs to absorb and transport water was examined in laboratory tests. Mycorrhiza cultures were synthesized under aseptic conditions and inoculated with Suillus bovinus fungus. Three seedlings were transferred to peat and exposed to tritiated water supplies. Rhizomorphs emerging from the cup were sliced into sections from top to root. Scintillation counting of each section revealed that the water had moved from both the upper and lower source cups through rhizomorphs to mycorrhizal roots and shoots in just 1 hour. Water movement was dependent on the presence of a rhizomorph connection from source cup to seedling. Ultrastructural analysis showed great differentiation in this type of rhizomorph. Their diameters were between 6 and 20 micrometers and resembled the xylem vessels of higher plants. These rhizomorphs may absorb water and facilitate its transport over ecologically significant distances. Investigations are being conducted to select mycorrhizal associates which are capable of improving the performance of forest crops, especially in semiarid regions. (Geiger-FRC)