Available information on bacteria that influence the economically important
white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico) life cycle is scarce. From the ascocarp
of white truffle we isolated a strain TMG 022C, capable for growth in
nitrogendepleted conditions and assimilation of mannitol and trehalose.
According to 16S rDNA sequence phylogeny, the strain was closely related to
Sphingobium amiense. The strain had the ability to perform ammonification,
reduce nitrate and solubilize Ca3(PO4)2, produce chitinase, lipase,
phospholipase and ?-glucanase, but not cellulase, pectinase, protease and
siderophores. The results suggest that Sphingobium sp. TMG 022C could have an
influence on the Tuber magnatum life cycle through improved mycelium
nutrition and ascocarp decomposition.