Organic acids in root exudates from Picea abies seedlings influenced by mycorrhiza and aluminum

Organic acid anions exuded from roots of Picea abies (Norway spruce) seedlings grown on glass beads in the presence and absence of mycorrhiza (Laccaria bicolor) and aluminum (Al) at pH 3.9 were measured. We wanted to test if the roots exuded more organic acid anions when exposed to Al and if mycorrhization influenced the exudation. Oxalate was exuded in far higher amounts than any other organic acid anion, with a maximum rate of 1.7 nmol (mg root DW)(-1) d(-1). Mycorrhizal roots exuded significantly more oxalate than nonmycorrhizal roots. The presence of Al did not enhance oxalate exudation. We conclude that the oxalate exuded constitutively by Picea abies/Laccaria bicolor may lead to rhizosphere oxalate concentrations that are relevant for Al resistance.