Mycorrhizae: A potential microorganism and its implication in agriculture

Abstract

Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic mutualistic relationship between special soil fungi and fine plant root system. Mycorrhizal fungi are a heterogeneous group of diverse fungal taxa, associated with the roots of over 90% of all plant species. They play a crucial role in plant nutrient uptake, water relations, ecosystem establishment, plant diversity and the productivity of plants. Scientific research involves multidisciplinary approaches to understand the adaptation of mycorrhizae to the rhizosphere, mechanism of root colonization, effect on plant physiology and growth, biofertilization, plant resistance and biocontrol of plant pathogens, reclamation of heavy metals and contribution in soil aggregation. Mycorrhizae are an essential belowground component in the establishment and sustainability of plant communities, but thorough knowledge is required to achieve maximum benefits from these microorganisms and their associations. © Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2018. All rights reserved.