These observations imply that conifer root grafting is more common in strangers than in relatives, which is consistent with kin recognition and kin selection in conifers.
We have characterised the mitochondrial genome of the conifer root rot pathogen Heterobasidion irregulare and compared the size, gene content and structure of 20 Basidiomycete mitochondrial genomes.
Other endophyte surveys have also cultured members of the Basidiomycota from woody tissues such as the inner bark [ 35], and from conifer fine roots, which in some cases can exhibit a growth pattern and mantle morphology similar to that of ectomycorrhizal fungi [ 37].
Additional evidence for bipedal feeding in these animals comes from the Campanian aged Blackhawk Formation of Utah, where hundreds of dinosaur footprints are preserved in association with taxodiaceous conifer and palm roots and fallen logs [ 129].
Biosynthesis of these compounds occurs in various plant organs like conifer resin ducts, leaves, roots, or fruits [ 13- 16].
Phialocephala fortinii was detected in all main localities (10 of the 24 root systems) and has been recognized as one of the most abundant DSE in roots of conifers and ericaceous plants in heathlands, forests, and alpine ecosystems [e.g., [ 52, 70- 74]].
The PAC is composed of more than 20 species, eigth of which were formaly described [ 28, 29], and they dominate the endophytic assemblages in roots of conifers and members of the Ericaceae in the northern hemisphere from polar to subtropical regions [ 30- 32].
They cause decay of birch and other hardwoods and of structural timbers (certain Poria species); conifer rot, heart rot, and root rot of rubber plants (Fomes); wood decay and root rot of cacao, coffee, rubber, and other trees (Ganoderma); and diseases of birch and conifers (Polyporus).
