SEASONAL FLUCTUATIONS IN ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGAL COMMUNITIES: A REVIEW
AbstractArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) enjoy being the cynosure in most agro-ecosystems. These fungi benefit the plant in multiple ways. They improve plant growth by enhancing nutrient uptake and protecting the plant from various plant pathogens, thereby promoting plant diversity. These fungi improve plant tolerance to various abiotic stresses, such as salinity, drought, extreme temperatures, and heavy metals. They also provide aid in improving soil aggregation and soil stabilization, resultantly leaving a positive impact on ecosystem structure. The diversity of AMF varies among different habitats of the globe. The study of dynamics in the variety of these fungi in other host species in accordance with seasonal changes in a particular agro-climatic zone is significant to evaluate the natural status of these fungi in a specific region. It also becomes necessary to explore these fungal communities in different habitats for efficient utilization and conservation. The exploration of predominant AMF is also helpful in forming inoculums and its utilization for the production of better seedlings and their survival in adverse conditions.
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