Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

The 20th century has been accompanied by the increasing growth in agricultural production, the use of chemical inputs, especially nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers, as well as the development of new methods in genetics and plant breeding. In natural ecological conditions, the rhizosphere soils have different types of living organisms, including mycorrhizal fungi, bacteria, and actinomycetes, that play a significant role in plant growth and development, plant nutrition as well as tolerance against biotic and abiotic stresses. Among them, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have a significant symbiotic relationship with different types of plants in most natural habitats. These fungi play a direct role in improving the growth and development of plants in agricultural ecosystems by absorbing phosphorus and other mineral nutrients from the soil. Also, the role of these fungi in reducing the effects of various biotic and abiotic stresses, bioremediation of contaminated soils, protecting plants against pathogens, increasing biodiversity in host plants, and improving soil fertility and structure has also been validated. AMF have a symbiotic relationship with the majority of plants, such as cereals, vegetables, and fruit trees, and thus play a significant role in sustainable agricultural systems. Proper management of these fungi can be very important in improving sustainable agricultural practices. In this chapter, the role and benefits of mycorrhizal fungi in sustainable agricultural development systems are emphasized and discussed. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.