In vitro mycorrhization of micropropagated Helianthemum almeriense plantlets with Terfezia claveryi (desert truffle)

The mycorrhizal synthesis of Terfezia claveryi with micropropagated plantlets of Helianthemum almeriense was carried out in vitro on modified Modified Melin- Norkrans (MMN) agar medium with pH 8.0. The mycorrhization rate was about 80% after 12 weeks. T. claveryi formed ectendomycorrhizas without hyphal mantle. The effect of the fungus on in vitro rooting was also studied. T. claveryi did not enhance in vitro rooting of microcuttings of H. almeriense. In vitro survival of the plantlets was the limiting step and mycorrhizal inoculation appeared to improve the survival rate of rooted plantlets. The effect of the mineral composition and pH of the medium on survival are discussed