Do fungi form mycorrhizal or similar associations with bryophytes &/or pteridophytes? This query comes from looking at the host of sbfs (small brown fungi) in the moss of my courtyard. After all, they form lichens with algae & mycorrhizae with higher plants.
Pteridophytes, yes. Mosses... the language used seems to be "mychorrhiza-like" in the cases that have been observed. Here's the resource: Evolution of Mycorrhizas (about a quarter of the way down the page)
Thanks. Reading around this link, I conclude that the literature in this field is a bit beyond my amateur interests. I have never heard of Glomeromycetes before. I am beginning to think that everything has fungal symbionts. I shall refer to my athletes foot as a mycopodiza in the future. Of course, I am still still trying to figure out what benefit I get out of the deal.
Hi, there is a wonderful and comprehensive resource on bryophytes (mosses etc) here: http://www.bryoecol.mtu.edu/ If you go to page 36 in chapter 8.4, you will find a section on bryophyte-fungi interactions and mycorrhizae. Absolutely fascinating and not too technical. Mentioned is the hypothesis that fungal symbiosis was critical in the colonisation of land by bryophyte ancestors.....Lysichiton - maybe your athletes foot will help you colonise Mars? good luck and safe journey, boa sorte e boa viagem, Brian
