Characterization of the main factors controlling boletus edulis and boletus reticulatus mycorrhization on chestnut hybrids (castanea x coudercii)

Abstract

This Doctoral Dissertation is the result of a R & D contract of collaboration between the company Hifas Foresta S.L. and the Agrobiotech for Health Research Group of the University of Vigo. Hifas Foresta SL has a wide variety of Castanea × coudercii (Castanea sativa x Castanea crenata) hybrids resistant to ink on the market. The use of ectomycorrhizal fungi increases resistance to pathogens, and some, such as Boletus edulis, are of great commercial interest for producing edible mushrooms of high culinary value. That is why this company is especially interested in optimizing the production of mycorrhized chestnut with B. edulis. This optimization will be possible if, in addition to ensuring the formation of ectomycorrhizae, its autophenology is better known to maintain mycorrhization in the field and also induce its fruiting. For this reason, the first objective of this thesis will be to identify the biotic and abiotic factors that affect the mycorrhization of Castanea × coudercii with B. edulis and B. reticulatus under natural conditions. Next, the second objective of this thesis will be to identify the factors that affect the mycorrhization of Castanea × coudercii with B. edulis under artificial or controlled conditions (in vitro). To this end, in vitro culture protocols will be designed for the fungi, helper bacteria and plantlets and formation of ectomycorrhizae in Castanea × coudercii.