The first axenic synthesis of morphologically typical
ericoid mycorrhizas of the Epacridaceae has been achieved
in micropropagated Epacris impressa Labill. with eight fungi
isolated from roots of two epacrid species, E. impressa
and Astroloma pinifolium (R.Br.) Benth. Mycorrhizal synthesis
has also been achieved between E. impressa and
both Hymenoscyphus ericae (Read) Korf and Kernan and
Oidiodendron griseum Robak, recognized endophytes of
Ericaceae, suggesting that the endophytes of the Epacridaceae and
Ericaceae are capable of cross-infection.
Infection rate of epidermal cells on hair roots varied from 3–77%
infection and the density of hyphal coils varied
widely. This synthesis makes possible studies of the roles of these
endophytes in the Epacridaceae and comparison
with their roles in the Ericaceae.