Tuber magnatum: The Special One. What Makes It so Different from the Other Tuber spp.?

Tuber magnatum Pico produces the worldwide famous “Italian white truffles” or “Alba truffles”. This species is distinct from other Tuber species for the unique aroma of its ascomata, its limited distributional range, and difficulties of cultivation. In light of all these considerations, it comes therefore as no surprise that T. magnatum is the most expensive truffle. In the present chapter, we will provide an overview of gross annual production and prices of white truffle as well as of T. magnatum mycorrhizal plants produced over the last few decades to promote its cultivation. Then, we will critically analyze factors that might have limited the successful cultivation of this fungus and put the accent on recent breakthroughs on its life cycle, reproductive strategy and population genetics. In this regard, we will discuss the impact that recent progresses in obtaining and certifying genuine T. magnatum mycorrhizal plants, monitoring the fate of this fungus in the environment and typing populations according to their geographic origin might have in designing innovative strategies to reach success in the cultivation of this prestigious fungus and in preserving its biodiversity.