Scanning electron microscopy of calcium oxalate on mantle hyphae of hybrid larch roots from a farm forestry experimental site

An examination of roots of hybrid larch from a farm forestry site by scanning electron microscopy has revealed crystalline deposits encrusting mantle hyphae of the associated ectomycorrhizal fungus. Electron probe micro-analysis identified calcium in the crystals and X-ray diffraction showed them to be whewellite, the monohydrate form of calcium oxalate. The significance of the finding is discussed.