Ecological characteristics of truffles growing in Denizli Province, Turkey

Abstract

The ecological characteristics of truffle species that grow naturally in Denizli province were investigated in this study. Field and laboratory studies conducted periodically between 2006 and 2010 resulted in the identification of a total of four truffle species belonging to two families. These species are Tuber aestivum Vittad., T. borchii Vittad., T. brumale Vittad. and Terfezia boudieri Chatin. In order to understand the fungus-plant, fungus-climate and fungus-soil relationships, the habitat and the climate characteristics of areas where the fungi grow profusely were examined and soil samples from four different localities were analysed. In addition, the physical and chemical properties of the soil were determined. In conclusion, it was determined that the important factors affecting the growth of truffle species in the region were appropriate host plants and the climate, as well as the physical properties of the soil such as pH, lime, texture, saturation and organic matter and the chemical properties of the soil such as the macro- and micronutrients.