Abstract
Invasive plants can leave lasting legacies on ecosystems, including changes to ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF). Such legacies can impair restoration even after invaders are removed. A review of information on mycorrhiza fungi and the Albany Pine Bush Preserve (APBP) relevant to restoration of Pinus rigida is presented. The results of research investigating the impact of invasion by Robinia pseudoacacia and the efficacy of using local spore inoculum on P. rigida seedling survival follow. Bioassay seedlings grown in invaded soils had fewer (3) EMF species than non-invaded sites (5). One species was present in both. Invasion history had no effect on field seedling survival after 8 months. However, 72% of seedlings inoculated with live inoculum survived, compared to 31% inoculated with autoclaved spores. These results suggest the legacy of R. pseudoacacia does not limit restoration of P. rigida at the APBP, but that establishment improves when pines are inoculated with locally adapted fungi.