Relation between oak tree phenology and the secretion of organic matter degrading enzymes by Lactarius quietus ectomycorrhizas before and during bud break

The ectomycorrhizas (ECM) formed by Lactarius quietus, an ECM fungus specifically associated with Quercus spp., are abundant all the year long. Root and stem growth, beginning before bud break in oak, are strong carbon sinks partially fulfilled with carbohydrate reserves. We hypothesized that L. quietus contributes to providing trees with carbon at bud break through enzymatic activities before photosynthesis begins. Activities of eight secreted enzymes (xylosidase, glucuronidase, cellobiohydrolase, β-glucosidase, N-acetyl-glucosamine, leucine aminopeptidase, acid phosphatase and laccase) relevant to carbon cycling and the release of phophorus and nitrogen from soil organic matter were measured on L. quietus ECMs before, during and after the bud break. Phenological, climatic and pedoclimatic parameters were also measured. Laccase, glucuronidase, cellobiohydrolase and β-glucosidase activities proved to be significantly related to tree reactivation and climate. All these activities can help the formation of new tissues by supplying carbon. L. quietus can behave saprotrophically, using soil organic matter as substrate. This is consistent with the hypothesis that it provides the oak trees with carbon when demand is high and photoassimilates are not yet available.