Fungi in ectomycorrhizal associations of silver fir (Abies alba Miller) in Central Italy

Naturally occurring ectomycorrhizas of silver fir (Abies alba Miller) were studied in two stands, one natural and one artificial, situated in Central Italy. A total of 25 mycorrhizal types was classified, for eight of which the mycobiont was identified at the species level. Analysis of macroscopic and microscopic features and matching of field-collected carpophores with associated mycorrhizas led to the tentative identification of several other types encountered during this study, at least at the genus level. No significant differences were noticed between natural and artificial stands in the relative richness of mycorrhizal types found on A. alba, indicating the maturity of the artificial stand with regard to succession of ectomycorrhizal fungi. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used for visualization of mycorrhizal structures formed by Lactarius spp., without the need for specific staining with a fluorochrome, thanks to latex autofluorescence. This technique allowed observation of several structures in greater detail than with conventional light microscopy.