Authors : Hassan Zare-Maivan, Khajehzadeh , Mohammad Hassan, Faezeh Ghanati and Mozafar Sharifi
Abstract: Despite wide distribution of Artemisia species in Iran, few investigations are available on ecophysiological mechanism(s) of its adaptation to various altitudes and soil properties. This study reports on the mycorrhizal fungal populations in the rhizosphere and degree of Arbascular Mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis with Artemisia aucheri in Parvar Protected Area (PPA), located in Eastern Alborz mountain ranges, Iran. Samples of soil and plants were collected randomly in three altitudes at/and about 36° latitude. Soils samples from top 30 cm of rhizosphere and A. aucheri roots were collected and analyzed. Mycorrhizal fungal spores were isolated, identified and statistically analyzed. Soil type was sandy-loam significantly becoming loamy with increase in altitude. Spores of Glomus species formed the dominant mycorrhizal populations in the rhizosphere. A. aucheri roots developed arbuscular-vesicular mycorrhizae. Content of Ca in the roots and shoots of A. aucheri significantly was lower while contents of N and P significantly improved with hike in altitude. There were strong to moderate correlations between degree of AM mycorrhizal development, spore density and soil nutrients. Mycorrhizal symbiosis affects A. aucheri nutritional uptake and growth. Adaptive distribution potentials of A. aucheri makes it a reliable candidate for “designated indicator species” in steppe ecosystems and provides a means for well-planned sustainable green management in disturbed areas and conserving of protected areas. All ecological and conservation programs for Artemisia communities in PPA, need to take into account the role of mycorrhizal symbionts and the need to conserve mycorhizal fungi in the soil as well.
Hassan Zare-Maivan, Khajehzadeh , Mohammad Hassan, Faezeh Ghanati and Mozafar Sharifi, 2015. Effect of Mycorrhiza in Adaptation of Artemisia aucheri to Altitude Changes. Research Journal of Biological Sciences, 10: 56-61.