Ecology and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in rice (Oryza sativa L.) in South India: an ecological analysis of factors influencing AMF in rice fields

Abstract

Aims This study examined the diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), mean spore density (MSD), and root colonization in relation to factors such as agroclimatic zones, rice varieties, soil types, and rice varieties in paddy fields of South India. The aim was to understand how these factors influence AMF, facilitating their effective use as a biological tool in agriculture. Methods and Results AMF were identified through light microscopy of spores, while MSD and percentage-root-length colonization (PRLC) were measured using standard methods. Correlation and principal component analyses were performed to explore the interrelationships between AMF characteristics and various environmental, soil, and plant variables. Sixteen AMF species were identified across 29 rice varieties from three agroclimatic zones, six soil orders, and 18 soil series over two seasons. Notably, 70% of chemicalized rice fields lacked AMF spores, and only 50% exhibited root colonization. This study offers new insights into the role of AMF in rice cultivation. Conclusions The AMF diversity and root colonization in relation to environmental variables underscores their significant impact on AMF in particular crop fields.