Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in field crop production: Potential and new direction

Chantal Hamel¹ and Désiré-Georges Strullu²

Abstract
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are multipurpose organisms with complex ecological ramifications in the soil system that have been difficult to study and understand.

The phytocentric concept of AMF that has prevailed since the naming of these organisms is being replaced by a holistic vision recognizing that AMF are a key element of soil functioning and health rather than a plant root component. Recent advances in knowledge brought about by new techniques for soil microbiology research open the way to AMF management in crop production.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi may influence crop development, even in phosphorus-rich soils. However, growing crops in soil with lower fertility would optimize the expression of the multiple beneficial effects of AMF in agro-ecosystem and reduce nutrient seepage to the environment.

The consideration of the soil mycorrhizal potential within the framework of soil testing and fertilization recommendations, the development of improved inoculants and signal molecules to manipulate AMF and the development of cultivars with improved symbiotic qualities would insure the production of good crop yields while improving agroecosystems’ sustainability.

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Source
Canadian Journal of Plant Science (2006) 86: 941-950


Author Locations & Affiliations
(1) Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Semiarid Prairie Agricultural Research Centre, Box 1030 Airport Rd.,Swift Current Saskatchewan, Canada S9H 3X2 (e-mail: hamelc@agr.gc.ca)
(2) UFR Sciences,Université d’Angers, 2 boul. Lavoisier, 49045 Angers Cedex, France


en français


Posted March 2010