Abstract

FURRAZOLA, Eduardo et al. Mycorrhizal status of Coccothrinax crinita (Arecaceae), an endangered endemic species from western Cuba. Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2020, vol.91, e913048.  Epub Mar 01, 2021. ISSN 2007-8706.  https://doi.org/10.22201/ib.20078706e.2020.91.3048.

This study describes the arbuscular mycorrhizal status of Coccothrinax crinita, an endemic endangered palm species native to western Cuba. Habitat destruction and local unregulated exploitation have caused population decline in its natural habitat and, consequently, C. crinita is on the verge of extinction. The survival of this species in stressed environments assumes its association with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. The present study was conducted near Las Pozas, a rural community located in Artemisa province, western Cuba. In order to determine the presence of arbuscular mycorrhizal associations in C. crinita, adult plants were selected in their natural habitat, and the roots and rhizosphere soil of the individuals collected. Root colonization percentage values were determined, as well as soil spore density and richness. An Arum-Paris mycorrhizal type was predominant in this species, with abundant coils and dark septate endophytes. Root colonization percentage averaged 60 ± 4.9% and spore density averaged 756 ± 223.33 spores 100 g soil-1. Sixteen AMF species were found, with a predominance of Glomus. Coccothrinax crinita is associated with AMF, and knowledge of the presence of an arbuscular mycorrhizal interaction in the rhizosphere of this palm is a first step towards its use as a biological tool to optimize cultivation and preservation of the species.

Keywords : Arecaceae; Threatened species; Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi; Mycorrhizal colonization; Spore density; Richness.