Investigation of factors to improve black truffle yield

Australian National University

  • Project code: PRJ-003974

  • Project stage: Closed

  • Project start date: Saturday, May 30, 2009

  • Project completion date: Tuesday, April 30, 2013

  • National Priority: NEPI-Feasibility studies and industry literature reviews

Summary

A detailed analysis and a comparison of genetic diversity within black truffles in truffieres in Australia and native environments (ie France) to investigate the possibility of genetic drift and its possible influence on truffle production. The interaction (biology) between tree and truffle and the influence of host or truffle genotype on that interaction needs to be outlined because to date it has been largely ignored. Genetics forms the basis of most interactions known between trees and their symbionts/pathogens and the interaction is critical in terms of success ie productivity.

Program

New and Emerging Plant Industries

Research Organisation

Australian National University

Objective Summary

We propose to investigate the genetics of truffle strains used in Australia, in an attempt to identify a possible cause for low truffle yields in Australian truffieres. Truffle samples will be collected from trufferies in the ACT, NSW and WA as well as truffle nurseries in Tasmania and WA to assess truffle genetic diversity and truffle mating type distribution.