RHIZOMORPHS OF PICEA-ABIES ECTOMYCORRHIZAE - ULTRASTRUCTURAL ASPECTS AND ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS (EELS AND ESI) ON HYPHAL INCLUSIONS

The ultrastructure of rhizomorphs of 14 ectomycorrhizae forming fungal species, isolated from natural soil samples, was investigated by the ultrathin section technique. The occurrence of intrahyphal hyphae with in rhizomorphs is discussed in connection with their possible role as resistant structures. Hyphal inclusions, observed in ultrathin section s of rhizomorphs, were analysed by electron energy loss spectroscopy ( EELS), electron spectroscopic imaging (ESI), and by a cytochemical pol ysaccharide-staining method for electron microscopy. These inclusions were interpreted as polysaccharides, lipids, and latex depositions. Th e identified nitrogen-containing inclusions are most probably protein accumulations. The results are discussed in connection with the poorly understood role of rhizomorphs in nutrient uptake, accumulation and t ransport.