Genotype-dependence in the interaction between Glonius fistulosum, Phytophthora fragariae and the wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca)

Root colonisation by Glomus fistulosum BEG 31 of a plant population from the outbreeding wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca) ranged from 42 to 80%; this was correlated with a significant increase in fruit trusses, berries and leaves. The mycorrhizal plants produced significantly more primary and secondary runners but less lateral runners. One hundred randomly selected seeds were multiplied in vitro and 4 clonal populations were selected. Root colonisation in the clones varied from 16 to 75%, with significant difference in the % colonisation between some of the clones. Percentage mycorrhizal colonisation was positively correlated with effects on host growth. The positive correlation between mycorrhizal root colonisation and growth effects in the clones was not reflected in their respective susceptibility, in the non-mycorrhizal state, to Phytophthora fragariae infection. Clones showing the highest and lowest mycorrhizal root colonisation showed high disease susceptibility whereas a clone with intermediate colonisation was resistant. When the clones were colonised with mycorrhizal fungi, the two susceptible clones became resistant to P. fragariae whereas the resistant and partially-resistant clones were less affected. Only one clone showed variation in vesicle formation when challenged with P. fragariae.