DIVERSITY OF ECTOMYCORRHIZAL FUNGI: SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH Pinus patula FORESTS ACROSS THREE ALTITUDINAL ZONES IN THE PROVINCE CHACHAPOYAS, AMAZONAS

The overall objective of this study was to identify the diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungi associated with Pinus patula forests across three altitudinal zones in the province of Chachapoyas, Amazonas. The methodology employed was basic, quantitative, descriptive, and correlational, with a non-experimental design. A stratified non-probabilistic sampling approach was used across 9 hectares, employing 1,000-meter linear transects for fungal collection and a zigzag method for soil samples taken at a depth of 30 cm. Diversity was calculated using the Shannon index, and physical-chemical analyses of the soil were conducted in the laboratory. The results revealed that the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil did not show significant differences among the three altitudinal zones (p>0.05), maintaining a slightly acidic pH (4.56-4.88), low electrical conductivity, and adequate nutrient levels.