XVI International Botanical Congess

Attachment to the roots of host trees is crucial to growth and reproduction of Aureolaria species under natural conditions. We investigated whether a rare species, A. patula, has fewer suitable hosts than a commonly occurring species, A. virginica, and whether the rare species is more host dependent. Greenhouse experiments were conducted to determine growth with and without a host, response to fertilization and benefit derived from different hosts. The results indicate that A. patula does not have a more narrow host range than A. virginica nor a greater inherent need for a host. mcunnin3@utk.edu.