ABSTRACT
Regarding phylogeny of mycorrhizas, classical methods involving morphotyping have been very useful. Morphotyping has led to identification and classification of over 6000 ECM fungi and 160 AM fungi. Advent of molecular techniques, especially ITS-RFLP, has resolved many questions on phylogeny of mycorrhizas. Inferences from morphotyping and molecular analyses have generally coincided, but molecular techniques have proved to be more accurate. The current suggestion is to use both morphotyping and molecular analyses wherever feasible. There is a clear need to develop phenograms for all possible AM and ECM fungi and utilize them as a ready reckoner during identification and classification exercises. Phylogeography of mycorrhizal fungi is interesting and useful. It needs greater emphasis. In future, depending on the enthusiasm of mycorrhiza researchers and their trend to bifurcate or club fungal species, we may either encounter a higher or lower number of AM/ ECM species. Mycorrhizal phylogeny remains a dynamic aspect and promises to be so for a while.
