Characterising the morphology, phylogeny, ecology and distribution of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, fine root endophytes

Fine root endophytes (FRE; Glomus tenue) are root-endophytic fungi traditionally classified within the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF; phylum Glomeromycota). However, their placement within Glomus, and their ecological function, was obscure. I grew Trifolium subterraneum roots enriched with FRE, extracted DNA for lllumina next-generation sequencing, and demonstrated that FRE phylogenetically align with Mucoromycotina-not Glomeromycota .Through a literature meta-analysis, cryo-scanning electron microscopy and a distribution survey I found evidence that FRE play a role in plant nutrient acquisition, but are likely influenced by different edaphic variables than AMF. Therefore, FRE differ from AMF in phylogenetic placement, physiology and ecological niche.