Arbuscular mycorrhiza: A versatile component for alleviation of salt stress

Abstract

Salt-affected soil is one of the most serious abiotic stress that causes reduced plant growth, development and productivity worldwide. Plants, in their natural environment, are colonized both by external and internal microorganisms. These microorganisms, particularly beneficial bacteria and fungi, can improve plant performance under stress environments and, consequently, enhance yield. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are associated with the roots of over 80% terrestrial plant species including halophytes, hydrophytes and xerophytes. In this respect, bioreclamation using mycorrhiza for alleviating salt stress would be a better option. AM fungi promote plant growth and salinity tolerance by different ways, such as enhancing nutrient acquisition, producing plant growth hormones, improving rhizospheric and soil conditions, altering the physiological and biochemical properties of the host and defending roots against soil-borne pathogens.