F. Franz et G. Acker, RHIZOMORPHS OF PICEA-ABIES ECTOMYCORRHIZAE - ULTRASTRUCTURAL ASPECTS AND ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS (EELS AND ESI) ON HYPHAL INCLUSIONS, Nova Hedwigia, 60(1-2), 1995, pp. 253-267
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.