Avances en técnicas de aislamiento, identificación y potencial aplicación de hongos micorrízicos orquideoides

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents a literature review related to the methods used for the isolation and identification of mycorrhizal fungi associated with tropical orchids. The development of the study analyzes both the conventional isolation techniques, based on the fungal culture in media such as agar potato dextrose (PDA) and agar malt extract (MEA), and the molecular approaches currently used for the identification of these microorganisms. While it is true that conventional methods remain useful tools in early stages of research, their effectiveness is compromised in comparison with new era molecular techniques, particularly the amplification and sequencing of the ITS region of DNA, which allows more accurate identification at the species level. Likewise, the main taxonomic groups of fungi commonly associated with orchids are reviewed, highlighting the genera Tulasnella and Ceratobasidium, as well as the orders Sebacinales and Atractiellales, recognized for their high symbiotic potential. Finally, the importance of mycorrhizal specificity, the conservation of native strains through fungal banks and the use of mushroom consortia as relevant strategies to optimize symbiotic germination and strengthen the conservation and restoration programs of endangered orchids are addressed.