Spatial dynamics of dark septate endophytes in the roots and rhizospheres of Hedysarum scoparium in northwest China and the influence of edaphic variables

- H. scoparium is an endemic and arido-active legume shrub in quicksand environments.
- A root-fungi association exists between H. scoparium and DSE.
- Five species identified as DSE for the first time in desert ecosystem.
- Dynamics of DSE are influenced by edaphic variables in desert ecosystem.

Spatial dynamics of DSE in the roots and rhizospheres of Hedysarum scoparium Fisch. et Mey. and soil factors were investigated at seven arid and semi-arid locations in northwest China in July 2015. Sampling sites were found to have a significant influence on the morphology, components, distribution, and infection of DSE in the roots of H. scoparium. Of nine DSE species isolated from H. scoparium roots, five are reported here for the first time from desert ecosystems. Hyphal infection in roots was positively correlated with soil urease and phosphatase activity. The presence of microsclerotia in roots was positively correlated with soil ammonium, and negatively correlated with soil organic matter and pH. We conclude that DSE infection is spatially predictable, and is influenced by nutrient availability and enzymatic activity. This research provides a basis for further understanding the ecological functions of DSE, and their roles in the promotion of vegetation restoration and in reducing erosion and desertification in arid ecosystems.