Limited Effects of Invasive Jumping Worms on Plant Mycorrhizal Associations

Authors: sophie marin, Andrea Daválos

SUNY Campus: SUNY Cortland

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 47

Timeslot: Session A 9:00-10:00 AM

Abstract: Invasive jumping worms present in hardwood forests have been found to alter soil chemistry and reduce native understory plant abundance. One mechanism impacted by invasive worms is the symbiosis between mycorrhiza and root hairs of native plants, but it is unclear how its strength varies across species. The fungi live within a plant’s root system where it receives photosynthetic carbon from the plant and in return, supplies the plant with phosphorus and nitrogen. Disruption of mycorrhizal associations may lead to decreased nitrogen and phosphorous in plant tissues and a decrease in plant growth, reproduction, and survival. In this study, we evaluated the potential changes that invasive jumping worms have on mycorrhiza structures present in the fine root hairs of Solidago flexicaulis (zig-zag goldenrod). Native seedlings were transplanted and recollected from 7 sites in the Catskill Mountains located along a gradient of invasive worm abundance. Roots were separated from the aboveground biomass, cleaned, and then stained for mycorrhiza viewing. Frequency of mycorrhiza structures varied according to site, but not according to worm abundance. Hyphae were the most common structure, followed by vesicles and arbuscules. These results refute our hypothesis, suggesting that invasive worms may not have an impact on mycorrhiza structures in S. flexicaulis.