Mycorrhizal synthesis of Algerian holm oak (Quercus ilex L.) with Perigord black truffle (Tuber melanosporum Vitt.)

The Perigord black truffle (Tuber melanosporum Vitt.) is an edible hypogeous mushroom most cultivated in the world for its gastronomic value, its taste aroma and its economic importance. Truffle cultivation does not exist in Algeria and no study has been undertaken on the introduction of its cultivation. Mycorrhizal synthesis was carried out in a greenhouse by inoculating, in vivo on a soilless culture substrate, Algerian Quercus ilex seedling with spores of Perigord black truffle. Mycorrhization significantly improves aerial growth and root system of inoculated holm oak seedlings. The formation of ectomycorrhizae in Algerian Quercus ilex L. seedling inoculated with Perigord black truffle in vivo culture conditions was obtained for the first time. The mycorrhizal colonization rate obtained in the present study indicates that the forest species Quercus ilex originating from Algeria is compatible with the ecological requirements of the Perigord black truffle.