Production and Characterization of Mycorrhizal Fungal Inoculum

Project summary:

In earlier studies, several arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) species were isolated and identified from Crosstown Prairie, Minneapolis, MN. Single spore cultures were established for some of these species. The primary goal for this project is to determine whether AMF cultures can be established for the individual AMF species to produce enough inoculum for its characterization and further production. To this end, researchers experimentally produce and characterize AMF inoculum. The use of molecular techniques permits the identification of the AMF species. The ultimate objective of this research is to produce AMF inoculum from the Twin Cities area for commercial use in this area.