In vitro germination ofErythrorchis ochobiensis (Orchidaceae) in the presence ofLyophyllum shimeji, an ectomycorrhizal fungus

In vitro germination of a myco-heterotrophic orchid,Erythrorchis ochobiensis, was tested in the presence of ectomycorrhizal fungi,Lyophyllum shimeji andTricholoma fulvocastaneum. Lyophyllum shimeji stimulated the germination after incubation for 1.5 mo. Although most germinated seeds did not grow further after 3 mo, several seeds developed into small protocorms but showed amorphous profiles. Fungal mycelia were observed in the germinated seeds and protocorms, but pelotons were not detected. Since the seeds did not germinate axenically, it may be suggested that the fungus has the ability to stimulate germination.