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The state of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal diversity in India: An analysis
Abstract
During the last few years there have been revolutionary changes in understanding of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi distribution, conservation and prospecting using computational databases and platforms. In the present study a searchable biodiversity database available at http://amfungi.aurobindo.du.ac.in and www.amfungi.in is presented using MS access and visual basic applications (VBA). A consolidated region-wise distribution checklist of 148 species of AM fungi belonging to 21 genera of the phylum Glomeromycota is developed, which can be searched either species-wise or state-wise to retrieve information about latest consensus classification, type specimen description, apart from occurrence and abundance. We report Funneliformis mosseae to be the most widely distributed species of Glomeromycota in India, present in the largest number of states which is in dissent with earlier reports of Glomus fasciculatum and Glomus macrocarpum as the most widely distributed species. The genus Glomus is represented by the highest number of species followed by Acaulospora and Scutellospora. The states falling in the Western Ghats region, i.e. Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra, contain more than 68.9 % of total AM fungal species reported from India. Many important states of India especially Himachal Pradesh, North Eastern India which covers the region of Himalayas and Aravallis remain less represented. We hope that the checklist serves as a quick reference for knowing which Glomeromycota are expected at any Indian location and can be further used to fill gaps in world distribution maps of AMF apart from providing latest classification and quick links to the availability of monospore cultures and original species description.
... The distribution profile of Acaulospora species reviewed here seems to follow this trend. For instance, there were few Acaulospora reports in India until 2014, when Gupta et al. [110] reviewed the diversity of the genus, recording 45% of all known Acaulospora species in India. The same is valid for Brazil, the richest country in Acaulospora species, and other AMF. ...
... This difference in Acaulospora diversity among different localities may also be explained, in part, by the scientific efforts in taxonomic studies in said regions. There is a tendency for increased occurrences in countries where this type of research is emerging, such as in Latin America[16,107], Africa and Asia[108][109][110][111]. The distribution profile of Acaulospora species reviewed here seems to follow this trend. ...
... The distribution profile of Acaulospora species reviewed here seems to follow this trend. For instance, there were few Acaulospora reports in India until 2014, when Gupta et al.[110] reviewed the diversity of the genus, recording 45% of all known Acaulospora species in India. The same is valid for Brazil, the richest country in Acaulospora species, and other AMF. ...
The genus Acaulospora has undergone many updates since it was first described; however, there are some missing pieces in the phylogenetic relationships among Acaulospora species. The present review aimed to: (i) understand the evolutionary meaning of their different spore wall ornamentations; (ii) define the best molecular marker for phylogenetic inferences, (iii) address some specific issues concerning the polyphyletic nature of Acaulospora lacunosa and Acaulospora scrobiculata, and the inclusion of Kuklospora species; and (iv) update the global geographical distribution of Acaulospora species. As such, the wall ornamentation of previously described Acaulospora species was reviewed and phylogenetic analyses were carried out based on ITS and SSU-ITS-LSU (nrDNA). Moreover, the already available type material of A. sporocarpia was inspected. According to the data obtained, temperate and tropical zones are the richest in Acaulospora species. We also confirmed that A. sporocarpia does not belong to Acaulospora. Furthermore, our phylogeny supported the monophyly of Acaulospora genus, including the Kuklospora species, K. colombiana and K. kentinensis. The nrDNA phylogeny presented the best resolution and revealed the homoplasic nature of many ornamentations in Acaulospora species, pointing out their unfeasible phylogenetic signal. This review reinforces the urgency of more molecular markers, in addition to the nrDNA sequences, for the definition of a multi-locus phylogeny.
... These studies indicated the widespread occurrence of species belonging to Glomus and limited distribution of species belonging to other taxa like Acaulospora, Entrophospora, Gigaspora, Sclerocystis, and Scutellospora. Gupta et al. (2014) consolidated a region-wise checklist of the distribution of AMF in different states of India after 2005. This study revealed the occurrence of 148 species of AMF from 21 genera and also created a searchable AMF diversity database (http://amfungi. ...
... Moreover, the study also indicated that Funneliformis mosseae (¼Glomus mosseae) is more common in Indian soils compared to the previous assumption of Glomus macrocarpum and Rhizophagus fasciculatus (¼G. fasciculatum) as the most widely distributed AMF species (Gupta et al. 2014). Among the different AMF genera reported from Indian soils, Glomus is represented by the maximum number of species followed by Acaulospora and Scutellospora. ...
... Yadav and Pandey (2016) reviewed the biodiversity of AMF in India and reported the occurrence of 120 species of AMF belonging to Acaulospora, Dentiscutata, Entrophospora, Gigaspora, Sclerocystis, and Scutellospora. The distribution and species diversity in this review resemble those of Gupta et al. (2014). One of the authors (Muthukumar T) collected information on the diversity of AMF after 2014 and included the species listed by Gupta et al. (2014) and studies since 2010 that were not covered by Gupta et al. (2014). ...
Frank coined the term “mycorrhiza” in 1885 and showed that it is a symbiotic association between plants and certain fungi. Prehistory is the report of this association earlier to coining of the term mycorrhiza. The prehistory and history of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) globally is covered briefly. Tracing the history of AMF in India, the occurrence of AMF was first reported by Bakshi from Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. Systematic studies on AMF were initiated in the 1970s by a few institutions in India. There was an upsurge of interest in 1980s and many laboratories started working on AMF. In the 1990s lesser number of institutions initiated work on AMF compared to the 1980s. From 2000 and later the number of laboratories initiating work on AMF further came down, though some of the institutions which initiated the work in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s still continue to work on AMF. The work of Indian scientists on AMF covered the areas like taxonomy, diversity, plant growth promotion, ecology, biological control of plant pathogens, alleviation of abiotic stresses, in vivo and in vitro mass production and development of microbial consortia with PGPR, thereby reducing the NPK fertilizer application to crops in the field. We hope this will be of interest to scientists working on AMF.
... In India, more than 161 species have been known to exist up to 2016 ). The studies from India showed that Funneliformis mosseae is the most widely distributed species and Glomus is represented by the highest number of species (Gupta et al. 2014). The other widely distributed species in India are Funneliformis mosseae, Rhizophagus fasciculatus, R. intraradices, Acaulospora laevis, A. spinosa, A. scrobiculata, Glomus aggregatum, Claroideoglomus claroideum and C. etunicatum. ...
... The other widely distributed species in India are Funneliformis mosseae, Rhizophagus fasciculatus, R. intraradices, Acaulospora laevis, A. spinosa, A. scrobiculata, Glomus aggregatum, Claroideoglomus claroideum and C. etunicatum. However, most of this information of diversity is based on morphological characteristics of AMF rather than molecular methods (Gupta et al. 2014). The fact was revealed when complete database of AMF diversity and distribution was built with specific information on their mode of diversity determination. ...
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been suggested as an important component of sustainable plant production systems, where restoration and conservation of resources, including environment, is the mainstay. Present chapter highlights recent developments on AMF diversity with reference to its importance for sustainable production systems. The important aspects of taxonomic, genetic and functional diversity of AMF in relation to host-plant interaction, plant nutrient uptake, growth and productivity benefits along with soil nurturing properties such as aggregation are discussed. Influence of several agronomic practices on diversity of these fungi is reviewed with reference to its potential for future exploitation as a commercial biofertilizer.
... Considering that tropical forests are biodiversity hostspots and that AMF are important for the maintenance of plant communities, the objective of this study was to inventory Glomeromycotina species in natural vegetation types and under anthropic pressure in order to increase knowledge about the distribution of these fungi in tropical forests. Up to now, 162 AMF species had been recorded in these forests (de Souza et al. 2010, Goto et al. 2010, Gupta et al. 2014, Jobim et al. 2016. However, as the records are outdated and fragmented by regions within countries, the current review will evidence much greater richness and contribute with a global view of the distribution of AMF in tropical areas. ...
... The data generated are based on literature review, consulting the Scielo, Scopus and Web of Science databases and the following publications: Mukerji & Bhattacharjee (1983), Vestberg et al. (1999), Mangan & Adler (2000), Picone (2000), Carrenho et al. (2001), Varela & Trejo (2001), Suciatmith (2002), Lovelock et al. (2003), Muthukumar et al. (2003), Souza et al. (2003Souza et al. ( , 2013Souza et al. ( , 2016, Uhlmann et al. (2004), Shi et al. (2006), Gavito et al. (2008), Sharda & Rodrigues (2008), Tchabi (2008), Tchabi et al. (2008), Violi et al. (2008), Aguilar-Fernández et al. (2009), Rhatwal & Gandhe (2009), Cuenca & Lovera (2010), Goto et al. (2010), Wang et al. (2010), Sridhar et al. (2011), Stürmer & Siqueira (2011), Arias et al. (2012), Boonlue et al. (2012), Carneiro et al. (2012), da Silva et al. ( , 2015aSilva et al. ( , b, 2017a, de Carvalho et al. (2012), de Mello et al. (2012, Jefwa et al. (2012), Lakshmipathy et al. (2012), Rajkumar et al. (2012), Bonfim et al. (2013Bonfim et al. ( , 2016, Johnson et al. (2013), Kamble et al. (2013), Leal et al. (2013), Pagano et al. (2013), Pontes et al. (2013), Santos et al. (2013), Teixeira-Rios et al. (2013), Vasconcellos et al. (2013), Freitas et al. (2014), Gupta et al. (2014), Pereira et al. (2014Pereira et al. ( , 2016, Sousa et al. (2014Sousa et al. ( , 2017, Belay et al. (2015), Channabasava & Lakshman (2015), Dantas et al. (2015), , Rajeshkumar et al. (2015), Trejo et al. (2015), de Assis et al. (2016), Jobim et al. (2016), Willis et al. (2016), Andrade et al. (2017), Pontes et al. (2017a, b, c), Souza & Freitas (2017), Torres- Arias et al. (2017), Verma & Verma (2017). ...
Tropical forests account for about 50 % of all world biodiversity, playing a key role in the functioning of the globe. These forests are divided into six natural vegetation formations: Lowland evergreen rainforests, Semi-evergreen rainforests, Dry forests, Lower montane forests, Upper montane forests and Mangroves. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF - Glomeromycotina) are among the organisms commonly found and directly related to the balance and functioning of these plant communities. This review shows the record of 228 AMF species in tropical forests, distributed in 14 families and 35 genera, representing 75 % of the known richness of this group of soil fungi. The Dry forests exhibit the largest number of AMF species. Areas under anthropic influence in the various forest formations generally present a decrease in richness when compared to natural preserved areas.
... Some studies have indicated that the family Glomeraceae to which Glomus belongs dominates the AMF species in arid areas [45]. Glomus that were identified in this study were often detected in the soils of other regions [46][47][48]. The spores of the genus Glomus under AMF species are tiny in size, but numerous, leading to widespread distribution and consequent dominance [49], and these spores are more adaptive in adapting spore formation patterns to different environmental conditions [50]. ...
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can help plants absorb more mineral nutrients after they colonize plant roots, and the mycelia harmonize the soil structure and physical and chemical properties by secreting compounds. AMF species co-evolve with their habitat’s geographic conditions and hosts; this gradually causes differences in the AMF species. By using Melzer’s reagent to analyze the morphology and using Illumina Miseq sequencing technology to perform the molecular identification of AMF communities among the four typical L. barbarum planting areas (Zhongning, Guyuan, Jinghe, and Dulan) investigated, the variety of L. barbarum roots and rhizosphere AMF communities was greater in the Zhongning area, and every region additionally had endemic species. The successfully amplified AMF was re-applied to the L. barbarum seedlings. We found that the total dry weight and accumulation of potassium increased significantly (p < 0.05), and the root volume and number of root branches were significantly higher in the plants that were inoculated with Paraglomus VTX00375 in the pot experiment, indicating that AMF improves root development and promotes plant growth. We have investigated AMF germplasm species in four regions, and we are committed to the development of native AMF resources. The multiplication and application of AMF will be conducive to realizing the potential role of biology in the maintenance of agroecology.
... This phenomenon attracts scientists to explore the mycorrhizal diversity of each plant in various soil systems and regional bases (Gao and Guo, 2010). Several earlier workers reported AM fungal association with several plants; however, reports on selected solanaceous plants are meager on a regional basis and also to such type of protected area and require attention (Lee et al. 2013;Gupta et al. 2014;Muthukumar and Sathya, 2017). Keeping the above facts, the present study aimed to explore the AMF diversity of this protected area along with their relative abundance and species richness to understand their symbiotic association with the selected plants of this region. ...
... Arbuscular Mycorrhiza is the mutualistic symbiotic association between most vascular land plant species and fungi of phylum Glomeromycota (Tanwar et al., 2011). They are the main component of the soil microbiota in most of the forest ecosystems (Gupta et al., 2014). These associations represent a key factor in the below ground dynamics which influence species diversity and plant community structure. ...
The Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal diversity was studied in the 10 selected plants belonging to family Fabaceae present in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) , Borivali , Mumbai , Maharashtra. The plants selected were Leucaena leucocephala , Butea monosperma , Cassia fistula , Delonix regia , Tamarindus indica , Peltophorum pterocarpum ,Pongamia pinnata,Saraca indica, Acacia catechu, Pithecellobium dulce. Rhizospheric soil and roots were collected and screened for the presence of arbuscular mycorrhizal
fungi. Based on morphological characters of spores, 42 species belonging to seven genera were identified. Maximum spore density, species richness & root colonization were observed in Delonix regia.
From the trap culture of Delonix regia, 11 Arbuscular Mycorrhizal species were recovered. Glomus and Acaulospora were
the dominant genera in all the plants. Root colonization in the plants was in the form of hyphae, arbuscules,vesicles and auxillary cells. Maximum root colonization was also observed in Delonix regia.
... In India, more than 161 species have been reported . Studies from India showed that Funneliformis mosseae is the most widely distributed species, and the genus Glomus is represented by the highest number of species (Gupta et al., 2014). ...
Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are obligate biotrophic symbionts that form a mutualistic association with plant roots. They are directly involved in plant mineral nutrition and environmental stress tolerance. Most crop plants are symbiotic with AM fungi, and the ability of AM fungal symbiosis to improve crop production is widely recognized. This paper highlights the efficacy of AM fungi as a vital component of sustainable crop production systems, and it's prospective for exploitation as an on-farm agro-input.
... The stress of urban pollution on soil as a result of change in land usage pattern may also be affecting the occurrence of these fungi. In all, occurrence of 167 species of the total of ~250 morphologically described species belonging to the phylum Glomeromycota are known to occur in India (Gupta, Naqvi & Singh, 2014;Gupta, Naqvi & Kumar, 2017). Nevertheless, studies on the biodiversity of AM fungi concerning their protection and conservation have yet not begun in several parts of the world including India. ...
Increasing urbanisation is widely associated with decline in biodiversity of all forms. The aim of the present study was to answer two questions: (i) Does rapid urbanization in Delhi (India) affect biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi? (ii) If so, how? We measured the AM fungal diversity at nine sites located in Delhi forests, which had different types of urban usage in terms of heavy vehicular traffic pollution, littering, defecation and recreational activities. The study revealed a significant decrease in AM fungal diversity (alpha diversity) and abundance measured as spore density, biovolume, mean infection percentage (MIP) in roots, soil hyphal length and easily extractable glomalin related soluble proteins (EE-GRSP) at polluted sites. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and nested PERMANOVA, revealed significant differences in AM fungal community structure which could be correlated with variations in soil moisture, temperature, pH, carbon, and nitrogen and phosphorus levels. BEST (biota and environmental matching) analysis of biological and environmental samples revealed that soil temperature and moisture accounted for 47.6 % of the total variations in the samples. The study demonstrated how different forms of human activities in urban ecosystems of Delhi are detrimental to the diversity and abundance of AM fungi.
... C. etunicatum has been isolated previously in different ecosystems from the Arctic tundra to tropical regions (http://invam.wvu.edu/the-fungi/ classification/claroideoglomeraceae/claroideoglomus/ etunicatum; Toomer et al. 2015;Gupta et al. 2014), suggesting that it is a widely distributed species. ...
The effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on plant-associated microbes are poorly known. We tested the hypothesis that colonization by an AM fungus affects microbial species richness and microbial community composition of host plant tissues. We grew the grass Deschampsia flexuosa in a greenhouse with or without the native AM fungus, Claroideoglomus etunicatum. We divided clonally produced tillers into two parts: one inoculated with AM fungus spores and one without AM fungus inoculation (non-mycorrhizal, NM). We characterized bacterial (16S rRNA genes) and fungal communities (internal transcribed spacer region) in surface-sterilized leaf and root plant compartments. AM fungus inoculation did not affect microbial species richness or diversity indices in leaves or roots, but the AM fungus inoculation significantly affected bacterial community composition in leaves. A total of three OTUs in leaves belonging to the phylum Firmicutes positively responded to the presence of the AM fungus in roots. Another six OTUs belonging to the Proteobacteria (Alpha, Beta and Gamma) and Bacteroidetes were significantly more abundant in NM plants when compared to AM fungus-inoculated plants. Further, there was a significant correlation between plant dry weight and leaf microbial community compositional shift. Also, there was a significant correlation between leaf bacterial community compositional shift and foliar nitrogen content changes due to AM fungus inoculation. The results suggest that AM fungus colonization in roots has a profound effect on plant physiology that is reflected in leaf bacterial community composition.
This volume is a compilation of reviews on the industrial usage of soil microorganisms. The contents include 16 brief reviews on different soil microbe assisted industrial processes. Readers will be updated about recent applications of soil bacteria, fungi and algae in sectors such as agriculture, biotechnology, environmental management.
The reviews also cover special topics like sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, ecology, and intellectual property rights of patented strains, giving a broad perspective on industrial applications of soil microbes.
Volume 3 emphasizes various soil microorganisms including cyanobacteria and mycorrhiza. The 16 chapters cover the ecological significance of mycorrhiza to and their role in sustainable agriculture, microbial interactions with nematodes, microbes as biocontrol agents, and the use of endophytes in agriculture, Chapters also shed light on industrial aspects and microbial biotransformation, providing a comprehensive view of sustainable agricultural practices. Special topics such as the microbial carotenoids are also included.
The reciprocal give-and-take relationship of a fungus that colonises the plant root is termed mycorrhizae. The prime partner in the association is the fungus, whose obligation is to provide food and growth hormones to the plant. The fungus is also saddled with the responsibility of shielding the plant from pathogens. Reciprocal alliances are formed by several plants and crops with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. This interchangeable relationship has propelled the occurrence of new techniques in crop breeding and agricultural methods to buttress and advance arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in agroecosystems. The beneficial effect of AMF could be highly favourable to crops and the ecosystem at large in several ways, such as furnishing great resilience to plant diseases and enabling amelioration of the soil structure. The colonisation does not automatically bring about amplified plant burgeoning and high crop yield because land management customs, which motivate mycorrhiza–crop relationships, do not favour higher yield from crops. Land management traditions that could stimulate AMF, such as low tillage and a reduction in the use of chemicals. The functions of mycorrhiza such as its positive effect on nutrition and growth of the host plant, are shifted through intensive agricultural exercise. In general, the role of mycorrhizas is brought down by the high availability of nutrients from synthetic fertilisers to common symbionts, and in some cases. The tropical ecosystems of the world are blessed with a high abundance and diversity of AMF, which have great potential for improving agroecosystems. This chapter aspires to examine crop development and growth in conjunction with AMF in tropical agroecosystems, particularly in the area of attaining food security. The key issues surrounding the non-nutritional and nutritional tasks of AMF bonding with the crops as influenced by the environment, with a focus on optimising and employing the symbiotic consortium in viable management policies for excellent crop production have also been taken into account.
The present chapter highlights the current global scenario of maize production for food security and the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) for its enhanced productivity in various biotic and abiotic stress factors. The chapter presents the detailed major causes and effects of unprecedented climate change on maize such as temperature, salinity, water stress, and pathogen attacks and the roles of AMF in ameliorating these effects. Further, the chapter provides a brief insight into the role of AMF diversity already described in digital and living databases or as unidentified in a native flora for studying their roles in climate-smart agriculture, which could play a major role in future sustainable agriculture approaches.KeywordsArbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF)MaizeClimate-smart agriculture (CSA)Nutrient uptakeBiotic and abiotic stresses
Only a small number of aroids are examined for their symbiosis with glomeromycotean arbuscular mycorrhizal (GAM) fungi and the ascomycetous dark septate endophytic (DSE) fungi. Therefore we examined the aerial and terrestrial adventitious roots of Epipremnum aureum for the endophytic association and the soils for GAM spores. The aerial roots of E. aureum were free from fungal structures, whereas the terrestrial roots were colonized by GAM, fine root endophyte (FRE), and DSE fungi. The major portion of the terrestrial roots was colonized by FRE fungi followed by GAM and DSE fungi. The colonization pattern was a complex of Arum-Paris and intermediate types. Spores of Acaulospora, Funneliformis, Rhizophagus, Rhizophagus and Sclerocystis were isolated from the root zone soils. The results show that E. aureum can establish symbiosis with a wide range of endophytic fungi and FRE symbiosis is reported for the first time in aroids.
Arbu
scular mycorrhizal fungal database, named
i
AMF (
www.amfungi.aurobindo.du.ac.in
) is first digital database on
biodiversity and phylogeny of these beneficial fungi in India. It provides access to data on 161 species of arbuscular
mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) along with comprehensive information on their GPS location of reported occurrence,
taxonomy,
molecular sequence, phylogeny and bibliography. The database is based on primary data collected by authors through
ongoing surveys (year 2009
-
2017) and secondary data from earlier studies (2008
–
2016). Data is carefully curated to verify
that it
corresponds to the reference publication and a valid species name is used. Apart from being ecological meta
-
analysis
data source, it would have significant application
in selection of non
-
indigenous AMF inoculum in agriculture, reforestation,
horticultural
and land reclamation practices.
We examined roots of the shallot (Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum), one of the
most popular cultivated crops of the family Aliaceae, cultivated under conventional agriculture
for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) and dark septate fungal endophyte
(DSE) associations. All the plants had dual colonization of both AMF and DSE associations.
The intermediate-type AMF morphology in the shallot is the first report of this AMF
type for the family Aliaceae. The extents of total AMF and DSE colonization ranged from
20.7 to 67.3% and 3.6 to 35.3% respectively and varied significantly among fields.
Though no significant relationship existed between total AMF and DSE variables, they
were correlated to the soil variables. Significant correlations existed between soil P and
microscelerotia and also between soils N and K and AMF spore numbers. A total of six
AMF spore morphotype belonging to Glomus and Scutellospora were identified. Scutellospora
calospora was the most dominant morphotype in the studied fields.
The result showed that all the seven angiospermic plants viz. Morinda citrifolia L., Carica papaya L., Lowsonia inermis L, Mimosa pudica L., Tamarandus indica L., Bauhinia recemosa Lamk and Indigofera duthiei Drum. had AM fungal association in the roots and spore population in the rhizosphere soil. However, maximum percent root colonization of AM fungi was observed in Carica papaya (80 %) followed by others, while minimum in Lowsonia inermis (20%). Mimosa pudica (305) showed more spore density whereas less in Morinda citrifolia (59). Total four AMF was identified up to species level in which Glomus spp were found dominate followed by Acaulospora spp., Sclerocystis spp and Entrophosphora spp were found poorly distributed.
A mycorrhizal fungus infects the plant roots to form symbiotic associations whereby the fungi
give nutrients, water and protection to the plant in exchange for food in the form of
carbon. Mycorrhizal diversity is important to maintaining the crop vigor and soil fertility. They
play a crucial role in plant nutrient uptake, water relations, ecosystem establishment, plant
diversity, and the productivity of plants. Hence, the study of mycorrhizal diversity is needed to
understand the roles of the various species of mycorrhizal fungi in a habitat.
The present investigation was carried out to study the prevalence of AM fungi in some medicinal
plants growing in tribal belt in and around Mumbai by determining the extent of root
colonization, spore density in the rhizospheric soil and the actual species composition associated
with each host.
In all 15 medicinal plants, hosts were screened for the presence of AVM fungi. Out of these 11
medicinal plant hosts from different families were found to be mycorrhizal. The roots of the
hosts which were not found colonized with AM fungi were Oroxylum indicum, Desmodium
gangeticum, Bacopa monnieri and Zingiber officinale. The colonization was observed in the
form of mycelium, arbuscules, vesicles and chlamydospores. The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi,
spores isolated from different sites were represented by six genera, namely 1 species of
Acaulospora, 1 species of Gigaspora, 8 species of Glomus and 2 species of Scutellispora.
The AM fungi spores were from five genera and the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi species were
almost same in all the rhizoshperic soil of native medicinal plants (1 species of Acaulospora
namely A. appendicula, 1 species of Gigaspora namely G. gigantea, 8 species of Glomus namely
G. aggregatum, G. boreale, G. fasciculatum, G. geosporum, G. heterosporum, G. segmentatum,
G. tortuosum, G. radiatum, 2 spore of Scutellispora namely S. pellucida, and S. auriglobosa.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) structures in roots of the naturally invading plant species and spore number in rhizophere soils of four coalmine overburden dumps (OBDs) i.e. 1-year, 5-year, 10-year and 15-year old after dumping and three adjacent natural forest (NF) sites i.e.NF-1, NF-2 and NF-3 of Tikak Colliery, Margherita, Assam were studied. The plant rhizospheres of coalmine overburden dumps and adjacent natural forest contained arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). All thirteen naturally invading plant species on the OBDs investigated were positively mycorrhizal. AM fungal colonization in roots ranged from 15-82 per cent and AM fungi spores 100-1g rhizosphere soils ranged between 9 -1771 comparatively more. AMF spores were recovered from OBDs compared to natural forest (NF) soils, except 1-year OBD. Coal mining reduces AMF status in younger OBDs. AMF spore number was found to increase with increase in age of the OBD and even more in number in rhizopheres of OBD spoils than natural forest soils. Moreover, number of AMF spore types decreased due to mining and thereafter, increased with the age of OBDs. Spores of Glomus sp. were found to dominate in the sites. The diversity of AMF in natural forest soil was higher than that of the OBD spoils. About nine types of AMF spores were detected in the NF soils, but only 5-7 types were detected in OBD spoils. The genera AMF detected in different natural forest sites and overburden dumps were Glomus sp, Entrophospora sp, Gigaspora sp, Scutellospora sp, Acaulospora sp, Sclerosystis sp and two unidentified AMF (Type-Margherita).
Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are among the most abundant soil microorganisms, associating with 95% of plant families and occurring on all continents of the globe (Smith and Read 1997; Trappe 1987; Read 1991). All AM fungi are members of the newly created phylum Glomeromycota (Schüßler 2001). They inhabit most latitudes and terrestrial ecosystems worldwide, including both natural and human impacted systems. Despite their prevalence in the environment and importance to plant productivity, much remains unknown about patterns of diversity and the biogeography of Glomeromycotan fungi. Biogeography is defined as the study of the geographic distributions of organisms and the mechanisms that drive these distributions. Traditionally, AM fungal diversity was thought to be locally high and globally low; up to 20 species can associate with an individual plant, but less than 250 species have been described worldwide (Morton et al. 1995; Bever et al. 2001). Furthermore, international germ collections have been established in North America and Europe where researchers from around the world can send soil samples to be cultured and archived. According to these collections, many communities from around the globe appear similar, with the same morphospecies such as Glomus intraradices seeming to occur globally (Morton and Bentivenga 1994). Over the years, the number of morphospecies in international germ collections has remained low while the number of accessions has increased, indicating low global biodiversity for AM fungi. Furthermore, many taxonomic species such as Glomus intraradices and Glomus mosseae have been observed in a variety of geographic locations in drastically different environmental conditions. Together, these observations have contributed to the notion that AM fungal species have global distributions. However, critics claim that much of the biogeographical inferences currently made about AM fungi are based on information gained from biased sampling and variable methods (Fitter 2005; Johnson and Wedin 1997). Indeed, as the number of scientists working with AM fungi increases and novel regions and ecosystems are sampled, new AM fungal taxa as well as novel morphological traits have been discovered (Bever et al. 2001; Kramadibrata et al. 2000). In addition, methods used to determine AM fungal diversity and species composition are shifting from morphological to DNA-based. New techniques, new species concepts, and collaborative research efforts have invigorated studies of AM fungal biogeography. Joining conceptual frameworks and quantitative models with empirical studies will greatly advance our knowledge of Glomeromycotan biogeography.
Abstract: Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and dark septate endophyte
(DSE) colonization were investigated in three different plantation
sites (Umdihar, Umsaw and Mawlein) of Meghalaya, northeast India.
Isolation and identification of the AMF spore were conducted to evaluate
the AMF diversity and host preference in terms of AMF species distribution
and abundance in the plantation sites. Results showed that AMF
colonization was significantly higher than dark septate endophyte colonization
(p>0.05). AMF and DSE colonization had a narrow range of colonization,
varying from 50.91%−58.95% and 1.84%−4.11%, respectively.
Spore density varied significantly in all the sites (p>0.05). Out of 29
species identified from 7 genera, the species from Glomus was found to
be highly abundant. Sorenson coefficient (Cs) ranged from 0.35−7.0.
Species richness varied from 2.0−2.9 in the sites. Total species richness
was significantly correlated with total relative abundance (p=0.001). The
distribution, abundance and principal component analysis plot suggest
that Glomus macrocarpum, G. multicaulis, G. constrictum and Acaulospora
sp 1 were the most host preferred species which possibly may
favour the host with proper nutrient acquisition and growth.
Keywords: arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization; dark septate endophyte
colonization; Glomus; Michelia champaca
The Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life is planned to become a comprehensive catalogue of all known species of organisms on Earth. Rapid progress has been made recently and this, the twelfth edition of the Annual Checklist, contains 1,404,038 species. The present Catalogue is compiled with sectors provided by 115 taxonomic databases from around the world. Many of these contain taxonomic data and opinions from extensive networks of specialists, so that the complete work contains contributions from more than 3,000 specialists from throughout the taxonomic profession. Species 2000 and ITIS teams peer review databases, select appropriate sectors and integrate the sectors into a single coherent catalogue with a single hierarchical classification. It is planned to introduce alternative taxonomic treatments and alternative classifications, but an important feature is that for those users who wish to use it, a single preferred catalogue, based on peer reviews, will continue to be provided.
The Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life is planned to become a comprehensive catalogue of all known species of organisms on Earth. Rapid progress has been made recently and this Catalogue of Life edition contains 1,352,112 species. The present Catalogue is compiled with sectors provided by 132 taxonomic databases from around the world. Many of these contain taxonomic data and opinions from extensive networks of specialists, so that the complete work contains contributions from more than 3,000 specialists from throughout the taxonomic profession. Species 2000 and ITIS teams peer review databases, select appropriate sectors and integrate the sectors into a single coherent catalogue with a single hierarchical classification. It is planned to introduce alternative taxonomic treatments and alternative classifications, but an important feature is that for those users who wish to use it, a single preferred catalogue, based on peer reviews, will continue to be provided.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are key components of soil microbiota and obviously interact with other microorganisms in the rhizosphere which is the zone of influence of plant roots on microbial populations and other soil constituents. The microbial associates are more prone to general and annual fluctuations besides several abiotic factors such as environment and climatic factors which influence the whole process of AM - microbial interactions. Keeping in view, the importance of AM fungi the present study was undertaken for assessing the AM fungal spore population dynamics in the rhizosphere soil and its colonization, microbial (bacterial and fungal) population distribution in rhizosphere and nonrhizosphere soils as a function of seasonal variation in relation to soil physico-chemical factors associated with two legume crop plants collected from different districts of Andhra Pradesh state, India. AM fungal propagules and species were found to be well distributed varying in number from 12 to 89 spores per 10 gram soil in mungbean and 46 to 90 spores in soybean rhizosphere soils and percent root colonization in mungbean ranged from 36.74 to 90.68% however, in soybean it ranged from 23.58 to 76.92%. The 24 AM fungal species representing 4 genera were isolated, Glomus represented 12 spp. forming predominant genus. The Pearson Correlation coefficient data showed that the microbial population and AM fungal population and species, the degree of root colonization by native AM fungi varied significantly in two legume crop plants and influenced by soil edaphic factors. Significant negative correlation was recorded between root colonization and mean spore density of both the crops indicating that low levels of spore density are associated with high root colonization. The quantity and type of AM propagules also affected the dynamics of root colonization, which were also increased by increase in age of the crop plant.
Singh AK, Jamaluddin (2011) Status and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and its role in natural regeneration on limestone mined spoils. Biodiversitas 12: 107-111. Limestone mined spoils are devoid of adequate population of beneficial microbial flora. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are very important constituent of plant- soil-microbe system. In mined spoils the population of AMF is greatly reduced and hence the spoils become very inhospitable for establishment of vegetation. In the present investigation, status of AMF population and its effect on natural regeneration process is studied. It is well known fact that the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi play very important role in establishment of vegetation in degraded lands. Plantation of seedlings inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi provide favorable soil conditions for naturally growing vegetation in the mined overburden spoils. Physico-chemical properties of soil are converted suitable for planted species and thus it allows other species to grow and also provide shade to protect the herbaceous vegetation. Introduction of plant species attracts immigration of other species and if they established, may result into a very distinctive floral cover on disturbed lands. Thus, invasion of native plant species along with planted species may play a significant role in increasing the plant diversity on mined
Many microorganisms form symbioses with plants that range on a continuous scale, from parasitic to mutualistic. Among these, the most widespread mutualistic symbionts is the arbuscular mycorrhiza, formed between arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and vascular flowering plants and other plants. A study of diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in Camellia sinensis was conducted in four plantation territories of Uttarakhand. Microscopic analysis of the mycorrhizal status of roots has revealed that samples from all four locations belonged only to AM fungi. The mycorrhizal colonization level was found high thus reflecting the mycotrophic nature of C. sinensis (L.). Results of isolation and identification of spores from all field-collected soil samples has revealed relatively higher spore count. All recovered spores were found to belong to the Glomales Order, represented by Glomaceae family. Isolation has also brought into notice that three groups were dominant: the first one included light yellow colored spores, second, corresponded dark yellow-brown colored spores and third, magenta colored spores. The morphological characters indicated that the spore populations consisted of 3 – 6 morphotypes. The Glomus genus was represented by three species; that is, Glomus mossae, Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus sp. 1 (an unidentified species).
The impact of land use intensity on the abundance and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) was investigated at six land use types viz., natural forest, grassland, acacia plantations, cardamom plantations, coffee plantations and paddy fields in the Niligiri Biosphere of the Western Ghats in South India. There was no significant difference in AMF root colonization in different land use types during pre-monsoon but there was a significant difference in AMF root infection ratings between different land use types during post-monsoon season, where it was higher in natural forests and grasslands. The AMF spore density and infective propagules were significantly higher in grasslands and acacia plantations compared to all other land use types during both seasons. Except for paddy fields, the spore density and number of infective propagules were higher in post-monsoon season compared to pre-monsoon season in other land use types. The numbers of AMF species identified were 56 during pre-monsoon and 67 species during post-monsoon season suggesting seasonal variations in diversity. During both seasons Glomus fasciculatum was recorded in maximum number of sampling points across the landscape followed by G. geosporum during pre-monsoon and G. mosseae during post-monsoon season. The species diversity was highest in natural forests and grasslands as compared to other land use types in both seasons. The species richness index for AMF was highest in natural forests and least in paddy fields during both study periods. The sand content, bulk density, total N, organic C, alkaline and acid phosphatases positively correlated with AMF activity while clay, silt, K, total P and available P were negatively correlated.
Very little has hitherto been known about the response of structurally and functionally diverse arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to plant invasions. We investigated the impact of two alien invasive species, namely Anthemis cotula and Conyza canadensis, on rhizospheric AMF at different sites in the Kashmir Himalaya, India. We compared AMF species composition, and density of their spores in the rhizospheric soils of A. cotula and C. canadensis with comparable nearby un-invaded sites. Whilst 9 and 7 AMF species were recovered from the rhizospheres of A. cotula and C. canadensis, respectively, the corresponding un-invaded sites yielded 17 and 10 AMF species. Only 3 AMF species were common between the rhizospheres of the two invasive species. The spore density of AMF, unlike species richness, was higher in the rhizospheres of both the invasive species compared with the un-invaded sites nearby. This study brings to light alien invasive species-specific shifts in AMF diversity.
A new arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus was isolated from the Southern Guinea savanna in Benin, which represents a tree-rich savanna in the transition between the tropical atlantic rainforests and grass-rich savannas in sub-Saharan West Africa. The fungus was propagated in bait cultures and monosporic single species cultures, and is here described as Acaulospora spinosissima. It forms spores similar to those of Acaulospora spinosa, but in A. spinosissima the outer wall is thinner and the surface ornamentation is finer. Sequences obtained from the ITS and the partial 28S of the ribosomal gene revealed that the two species are phylogenetically not closely related. The new fungus was recovered from natural savanna at two locations and from one field site under yam cultivation in the first year after tree clearance. It
was not detected in agricultural field sites cultivated for more than one year.
Agroforestry is an intensive land use management system that integrates trees, shrubs, crops, etc. on a landscape level to achieve optimum benefits (2). Many forestry tree species are being evaluated for their suitability in agroforestry systems at National Research Centre for Agroforestry (NRCAF), Jhansi. Most of these are hardy in nature and gaining popularity for utilization of marginal and degraded lands in arid and semi-arid regions of our country. Harsh climatic conditions, poor soils and scarcity of water in these areas pose problems in their establishment and survival (1). Arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) colonize the root system of most native land plants and confer many benefits to the host under stress conditions. It improves uptake of phosphorus, certain minor elements, water and enhances plant growth, resistance to root diseases and water stress. It also improves hardiness of transplant stock (10). Looking to the importance of agroforestry in modern agriculture and advantages associated with AM fungi, present study was conducted to evaluate the status of these in rhizosphere of selected agroforestry tree species of Bundelkhand Region. The study was conducted at NRCAF, Jhansi to identify common AM fungi associated with important tree species, which are being evaluated for different agroforestry systems at the institute viz., bamboo (Dendrocalamus species Nees.), karanj (Pongamia pinnata Pierre), mahua (Madhuca latifolia Roxb.), neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.), ratanjot (Jatropha curcas L.), shisham (Dalbergia sissoo Roxb.) and subabool (Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de wit). A total of 45 soil samples from 9 sites were collected from rhizosphere of above mentioned tree species, 5 from each site during June 2007-2008. Soil properties and other details of different sampling sites were as follows: Site1-Tree: neem (NRCAF), soil order: vertisol, type of plantation: pure, pH: 6.7, EC: 57.2 µ S cm -1
Destruction of forests for agricultural purposes is a leading cause of forest disturbance and consequently of
biodiversity loss. To assess the impact of such forest disturbance on microbial diversity, we investigated the diversity of
arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the rich forests of Karbi Anglong hills of Assam, India. Three forest types viz.
undisturbed forests (UF), slash-and-burn field (SBF) and monoculture forest (MF) were selected. A total of 21 isolates of
AMF belonging to 4 genera were extracted and identified from rhizospheric soil. ‘Species forming glomoid spores’
comprised Glomus sensu lato, Rhizophagus and Claroideoglomus were the dominant genera in all the three sites. Spore
density was highest in UF and lowest in MF. Shannon–Wiener index of diversity and Simpson’s diversity index were
almost similar in UF and SBF. Our results show that natural undisturbed forest and slash-and-burn field contained similar
and a high AMF diversity compared to monoculture forest. The AMF diversity is not significantly affected by the slashand-
burn agricultural land use practices practised by the local tribes and, therefore, could be a component of a tropical
forest ‘conservation–agriculture matrix’.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal and dark septate fungal associations in shallot ( Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum ) under conventional agriculture
We examined roots of the shallot ( Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum ), one of the most popular cultivated crops of the family Aliaceae, cultivated under conventional agriculture for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) and dark septate fungal endophyte (DSE) associations. All the plants had dual colonization of both AMF and DSE associations. The intermediate-type AMF morphology in the shallot is the first report of this AMF type for the family Aliaceae. The extents of total AMF and DSE colonization ranged from 20.7 to 67.3% and 3.6 to 35.3% respectively and varied significantly among fields. Though no significant relationship existed between total AMF and DSE variables, they were correlated to the soil variables. Significant correlations existed between soil P and microscelerotia and also between soils N and K and AMF spore numbers. A total of six AMF spore morphotype belonging to Glomus and Scutellospora were identified. Scutellospora calospora was the most dominant morphotype in the studied fields.
Gwalior-Chambal region with an area of more than 45,000 km . is famous for its unique physiognomy-2 ravines (loc. Beehad), lying north of the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh (M.P) classified as arid with very hot summers and mild cold winters. Rainfall is mainly during monsoon months July to September and averages around 80-90 cm. Extensive cultivation of oil crop mustard (Brassica sps.) is done with low yields. The area under study has now been declared a preferential area for the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plant species, adapted to ravines, so as to improve economic potential of nearly 20 million rural populace of this area. Study of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and their association with the plants in the area is not available.. The plants were collected with their roots and their respective rhizospheric soil. The fresh roots were subjected to AMF analysis. AMF spore density was done assessing spore number per 100gm rhizospheric soil. INVAM and other updated literature was employed to characterize AMF species on the basis of spore morphology. 110 plant species collected randomly from their habitats spread over 54 families show dominantly polysporal association with AMF. On the higher side 6 species of AMF are symbionts of Aloe vera. Per 100gm of rhizospheric soil the mean spore density varies with highest around 166.22 in Aloe vera to the lowest of 5.33 in Abutilon induicum. 23 species seem as first time being reported as mycorrhizic. INTRODUCTION Chambal ravines world over and 'behaad' locally. It
Drimia indica (Roxb) Jessop. (Family: Hyacinthaceae), is also known as Indian squill. Due to over
exploitation and anthropogenic pressures such as habitat degradation many populations of D. indica have been lost and caused genetic depletion as well as loss of genetic diversity. Hence, it is necessary to initiate new means and approaches are to be worked out for germplasm conservation and sustainable utilization of this economically important medicinal plant. In present paper an attempt has made to study remarkably ignored Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi with D. indica.. Mycorrhizal colonization percentage in D. indica samples was varied in different populations in the coastal sand of Konkan region of Maharashtra. In present paper besides the roots, incidence of mycorrhizal colonization and spores inside the D. indica scale cells is reported for first time.
Seasonal dynamics of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal community composition in three common mangrove plant species, namely, Acanthus ilicifolius, Excoecaria agallocha, and Rhizophora mucronata, from two sites in Goa, India, were investigated. In all three species variation in AM fungal spore density was observed. Maximum spore density and AM species richness were recorded in the premonsoon season, while minimum spore density and richness were observed during monsoon season at both sites. A total of 11 AM fungal species representing five genera were recorded. Acaulospora laevis was recorded in all seasons at both sites. Multivariate analysis revealed that season and host coaffected AM spore density and species richness with the former having greater influence than the latter.
Paraglomus pernambucanum sp. nov. (Paraglomeromycetes) was found in a tropical dry forest in the semi-arid Caatinga biome of Pernambuco State (NE Brazil), in a cowpea and in two maize pro¬duction sites. It was characterized by combined morphological and molecular analyses on the spores isolated from field soil samples. Another species, Pacispora boliviana (Glomeromycetes), first de¬scribed only by spore morphology, had been known from another semi-arid biome in Southern America, the Gran Chaco in Bolivia. We detected this fungus now also at different locations in semi-arid to semi-humid NE Brazil. As for P. pernambucanum phylogenetic analyses were performed on nuclear ribosomal RNA gene sequences of the LSU region. For P. boliviana, the spores for these analyses originated from a trap culture inoculated with soils from the type location. The results now revealed that also P. boliviana belongs to Paraglomus. It grouped in a separate monophyletic cluster adjacent to P. pernambucanum, to P. brasilianum, P. laccatum and the type species P. occultum. Thus, P. boliviana is transferred to Paraglomus, as Paraglomus bolivianum comb. nov. Remarkably, it is the first species known in the Paraglomeromycetes with pigmented spores. Paraglomus pernambucanum and P. bolivianum have several fea¬tures in common: e.g. bi-walled spores, and densely pitted surface ornamentations on the structural layer of the outer wall. Spores of the two species can be distinguished by color and the diagnostic nature of their pitted ornamentation. The current knowledge about the global distribution of Paraglomus and Pacispora species is sum¬marized and discussed.
Plants respond differentially to different arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) as well as to the different soil moisture levels. Based on this background, the present study was carried out to investigate the effects of different levels of soil moisture and AMF inoculations on mycorrhization and growth of important agroforestry plants, viz., Phaseolus mungo, Triticum aestivum, Eucalyptus tereticornis, and Albizia procera. The experiments consisted of main treatment, i.e., three levels of soil moisture [field capacity (FC = 16 %), half-field capacity (FC/2 = 8 %) and double-field capacity (2×FC = 32 %)] and four subtreatments (mycorrhizal inoculations), viz., Acaulospora scrobiculata, Glomus cerebriforme, Glomus intraradices, and un-inoculated (control). AMF inoculations significantly (P < 0.05) increased growth and P uptake, in all tested plant species. In P. mungo, maximum AMF efficiency was observed at FC while in other plants, AMF were equally effective at FC/2 and 2×FC. Different inoculants were effective at different moisture levels. Furthermore, mycorrhization was the highest at FC. AMF inoculations were more important than soil moisture (explaining 33–97 % variation in growth) in P. mungo, T. aestivum, and A. procera (forward selection method), whereas soil moisture was more important for growth of E. tereticornis. Thus, it may be stated that depending upon soil moisture, inoculation of plants with suitable AMF consortium can be beneficial.
RÉSUMÉ
Sept espèces du genre Glomus (Glomus mosseae, G. fasciculatum, G.scintillans, G. versiforme, G. geosporum, G. macrocarpum et G. diaphanum) de la rhizosphère du tournesol sont décrites et illustrées. Une clef de détermination de l’espèce au sein du genre Glomus est préparée sur la base des caractères morphologiques. Les spores de ces espèces ont été identifiées sur des caractères morphologiques tels que l’attachement des hyphes, l’ornementation des spores, la paroi, la couleur et la taille des spores.
The variety and galaxy of fungi and their natural beauty occupy prime place in the biological world and India has been the cradle for such fungi. Only a fraction of total fungal wealth has been subjected to scientific scrutiny and mycologists have to unravel the unexplored and hidden wealth. One third of fungal diversity of the globe exists in India. Out of 1.5 million of fungi, only 50% are characterized until now. Unfortunately, only around 5-10% of fungi can be cultured artificially. Fungi are not only beautiful but play a significant role in the daily life of human beings besides their utilization in industry, agriculture, medicine, food industry, textiles, bioremediation, natural cycling, as biofertilizers and many other ways. Fungal biotechnology has become an integral part of the human welfare.
A new family (Intraornatosporaceae), two new genera (Intraornatospora, Paradentiscutata), two new species (P. bahiana, P. maritima), and a new combination (I. intraornata) are presented in the Gigasporales. The genera, both with diagnostic introverted ornamentations on the spore wall, are distinguished by spore wall structure and germ shield characteristics. The new species, detected in NE Brazil, can be differentiated by their projections on the outer spore surface. Partial sequences of the LSU rRNA gene place both species next to I. intraornata in a monophyletic major clade related to Gigasporaceae and Dentiscutataceae.
We aimed to enhance understanding of the molecular diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) by building a new global dataset targeting previously unstudied geographical areas. In total, we sampled 96 plant species from 25 sites that encompassed all continents except Antarctica. AMF in plant roots were detected by sequencing the nuclear SSU rRNA gene fragment using either cloning followed by Sanger sequencing or 454-sequencing. A total of 204 AMF phylogroups (virtual taxa, VT) were recorded, increasing the described number of Glomeromycota VT from 308 to 341 globally. Novel VT were detected from 21 sites; three novel but nevertheless widespread VT (Glomus spp. MO-G52, MO-G53, MO-G57) were recorded from six continents. The largest increases in regional VT number were recorded in previously little-studied Oceania and in the boreal and polar climatic zones - this study providing the first molecular data from the latter. Ordination revealed differences in AM fungal communities between different continents and climatic zones, suggesting that both biogeographic history and environmental conditions underlie the global variation of those communities. Our results show that a considerable proportion of Glomeromycota diversity has been recorded in many regions, though further large increases in richness can be expected in remaining unstudied areas.
The arbuscular mycorrhizal status of 46 medicinal plant species of herbs and shrubs in the western ghats of Karnataka region were surveyed during the month of September and November 2010 and 2011. Percent colonization, spore density and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi associated with the rhizospheric soil and roots of medicinal plants growing wild as well as under cultivated conditions in this area were investigated. It was found that 100% of the surveyed species were mycorrhizal. The spore density of AMF ranged from 15 to 520 spores per 100 g of soil. Percent root colonization and spore density was comparatively higher in the KDU region than other sampling sites. A total of 40 AMF morphotypes were recovered, of this 4 were identified upto genus level. Among 36 identified AMF taxa Glomus sps. were found to be very dominant in the rhizosphere of medicinal plants followed by Acaulospora sps., Gigaspora sps., Scutellospora sps., Paraglomus sps and Pacispora sps. Variation in the spore density and percent colonization among different sampling sites could be attributed to host specificity, adaphic and climatic conditions.
Concomitant morphological and molecular analyses have led to major breakthroughs in the taxonomic organization of the phylum Glomeromycota. Fungi in this phylum are known to form arbuscular mycorrhiza, and so far three classes, five orders, 14 families and 29 genera have been described. Sensu lato, spore formation in 10 of the arbuscular mycorrhiza-forming genera is exclusively glomoid, one is gigasporoid, seven are scutellosporoid, four are entrophosporoid, two are acaulosporoid, and one is pacisporoid. Spore bimorphism is found in three genera, and one genus is associated with cyanobacteria. Here we present the current classification developed in several recent publications and provide a summary to facilitate the identification of taxa from genus to class level.
Based on concomitant molecular analyses of the ribosomal gene and morphological characteristics, we divide the phylum Glomeromycota into three classes: Glomeromycetes, Archaeosporomycetes, and Paraglomeromycetes. Glomeromycetes are newly organized in three orders: Glomerales and Diversisporales, both forming typical vesicular arbuscular mycorrhiza with higher plants, and Gigasporales, forming arbuscular mycorrhiza without vesicles in the roots but with extra-radical auxiliary cells. Within the phylum, Archaeosporomycetes comprise exclusively bimorphic families and genera. The monogeneric Paraglomeromycetes species form glomoid spores that typically germinate directly through the spore wall instead through their subtending hyphae.
The roots of most plants are colonized by symbiotic fungi to form mycorrhiza, which play a critical role in the capture of nutrients from the soil and therefore in plant nutrition. Mycorrhizal Symbiosis is recognized as the definitive work in this area. Since the last edition was published there have been major advances in the field, particularly in the area of molecular biology, and the new edition has been fully revised and updated to incorporate these exciting new developments. . Over 50% new material . Includes expanded color plate section . Covers all aspects of mycorrhiza . Presents new taxonomy . Discusses the impact of proteomics and genomics on research in this area.
Dentiscutata nigerita Khade (family Dentiscutataceae), a new species is reported and described from the rhizosphere of Carica papaya plants from Kodar, Goa, India. The diagnostic features are discussed including the characteristic feature that the bulbous suspensor is attached at an angle to the spore.
A novel Glomus species was isolated from rhizosphere soils supporting Allamanda cathartica from Hyderabad, India. The spores proliferate and bud out a daughter spore terminally which is connected to the mother spore by a small connective. Sequence analysis of D1D2 variable domain of 26S ribosomal RNA gene of this Glomus sp. shows that it is different from other known AM fungi. The morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses support the creation of Glomus hyderabadensis sp. nov.
Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, commonly called maize grass, belongs to the family Poaceae. It is used as a fodder grass and is commercially cultivated in the Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu, South India. Four different localities of the Tiruchirappalli district were selected for the present investigation. The soil types of the four localities ranged from red sandy, red brown sandy to red brown sandy clay. Although the colonisation of Arbuscular Mycorrhizae (AM) in the roots of S. bicolor was positive in all the four study localities, the species of AM fungi colonising the roots varied. The percentage of root colonisation ranged from 52.0% to 94.5%. A total of 18 AM fungal species were isolated from the rhizosphere soils of the S. bicolor, of which only 4 were found to be colonised in the roots. The total spore counts varied between 122 and 582 per 100 gm of soil. Glomus aggregatum, G. etunicatum and Acaulospora bireticulata were the dominant forms and these 3 species showed 100% frequency in all the study areas.
Species composition and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) were investigated in three common and widely distributed plant species (Crotalaria anagyroides, Eupatorium adenophorum and Hedychium coronarium) from subtropical pine forest of Meghalaya, North East India. AMF colonization ranged from 66-71%. Colonization of dark septate endophyte was also evaluated and ranged from 0.17-0.85%. AMF spore densities with a range of 319 to 661 in 25 g(-1) rhizosphere soils were detected. Based on morphological characteristics, 23 AMF species belonging to two genera (Acaulospora and Glomus) were isolated and identified, plus one unidentified AMF species. E. adenophorum harbours the highest number of AMF species (15), followed by C. anagyroides (14) and H. coronarium (11). Species of Acaulospora were dominant in all three plant species. Acaulospora koskei, A. laevis, A. mellea, A. morrowiae and Glomus geosporum were isolated from all plant species. Diversity indices showed little difference between the three plant species. It is concluded that the three plant species from sub-tropical pine forest are well-colonized by AMF and host many AMF species.
The roots of most plants are colonized by symbiotic fungi to form mycorrhiza, which play a critical role in the capture of nutrients from the soil and therefore in plant nutrition. Mycorrhizal Symbiosis is recognized as the definitive work in this area. Since the last edition was published there have been major advances in the field, particularly in the area of molecular biology, and the new edition has been fully revised and updated to incorporate these exciting new developments. . Over 50% new material . Includes expanded color plate section . Covers all aspects of mycorrhiza . Presents new taxonomy . Discusses the impact of proteomics and genomics on research in this area.
1. Soil science and ecology have developed independently, making it difficult for ecologists to contribute to urgent current debates on the destruction of the global soil resource and its key role in the global carbon cycle. Soils are believed to be exceptionally biodiverse parts of ecosystems, a view confirmed by recent data from the UK Soil Biodiversity Programme at Sourhope, Scotland, where high diversity was a characteristic of small organisms, but not of larger ones. Explaining this difference requires knowledge that we currently lack about the basic biology and biogeography of micro-organisms. 2. It seems inherently plausible that the high levels of biological diversity in soil play some part in determining the ability of soils to undertake ecosystem-level processes, such as carbon and mineral cycling. However, we lack conceptual models to address this issue, and debate about the role of biodiversity in ecosystem processes has centred around the concept of functional redundancy, and has consequently been largely semantic. More precise construction of our experimental questions is needed to advance understanding. 3. These issues are well illustrated by the fungi that form arbuscular mycorrhizas, the Glomeromycota. This ancient symbiosis of plants and fungi is responsible for phosphate uptake in most land plants, and the phylum is generally held to be species-poor and non-specific, with most members readily colonizing any plant species. Molecular techniques have shown both those assumptions to be unsafe, raising questions about what factors have promoted diversification in these fungi. One source of this genetic diversity may be functional diversity. 4. Specificity of the mycorrhizal interaction between plants and fungi would have important ecosystem consequences. One example would be in the control of invasiveness in introduced plant species: surprisingly, naturalized plant species in Britain are disproportionately from mycorrhizal families, suggesting that these fungi may play a role in assisting invasion. 5. What emerges from an attempt to relate biodiversity and ecosystem processes in soil is our extraordinary ignorance about the organisms involved. There are fundamental questions that are now answerable with new techniques and sufficient will, such as how biodiverse are natural soils? Do microbes have biogeography? Are there rare or even endangered microbes?
Freshly harvested potato tubers, Solanum tuberosum var ‘Pukhraj’, were inoculated for transformation with Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain Ri1600. Hairy roots were formed after 8 days of co-cultivation and the transformation efficiency was 40 %. The transformants were transferred from Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) to Modified White’s medium (MW) and finally on a hormone-free minimal medium (M). The putative transformants were confirmed using rolA and rolB gene specific primers for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. The root inducing (Ri) T-DNA transformed potato roots were co-cultured with Glomus intraradices (CMCCROC7) to obtain arbuscular mycorrhizal root organ cultures (AM-ROC dual cultures), which were used for studying the symbiosis with Glomus intraradices and the potential for spore production in vitro. Sporulation was comparable with the existing in vitro carrot-dual culture system. Around 60,250 spores/jar could be harvested with around 38,314 extraradical spores/jar and around 21,936 intraradical spores/jar. The new method using potato is certainly promising for the mass production of mycorrhizal biofertilizers. The viability of the spores when tested on potato roots was nearly 100 % and more than half of the roots were colonized 12 weeks after inoculation.
Biodiversity information databases and platforms have seen considerable progress in recent years. They have a high potential in conservation science in general, but may be even more revolutionary in relation to poorly known species groups such as fungi, whose practical conservation work has been jeopardised by scattered and poorly controlled information. We review the tradition of collecting information on species occurrences in mycology and discuss the characteristics of the present fungal biodiversity information databases. With a special focus on population trend monitoring of fruit body producing macrofungi, we emphasise several unrealised opportunities of these databases and point out some relevant future directions for them. As especially important, we see the more effective utilisation of citizen science effort and combining the traditional database information with the one derived with modern molecular methods. Also, we emphasise the importance of information on collection effort, including the use of GPS based tracking data, along with the observations.
Two new species of VAM fungi, Glomus delhiense and G. multisubstensum, are described from India.
The publication of a large number of taxon names at all levels within the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Glomeromycota) has resulted in conflicting systematic schemes and generated considerable confusion among biologists working with these important plant symbionts. A group of biologists with more than a century of collective experience in the systematics of Glomeromycota examined all available molecular-phylogenetic evidence within the framework of phylogenetic hypotheses, incorporating morphological characters when they were congruent. This study is the outcome, wherein the classification of Glomeromycota is revised by rejecting some new names on the grounds that they are founded in error and by synonymizing others that, while validly published, are not evidence-based. The proposed "consensus" will provide a framework for additional original research aimed at clarifying the evolutionary history of this important group of symbiotic fungi.
Strong anthropogenic pressure, mainly mineral extraction, is one of the main factors leading to degradation of the Brazilian coastal environment. Strategies to recover these areas include replanting native plant species, and symbiotic fungi from the neighboring area might be important for the establishment of the new vegetation. Species richness, diversity and community composition of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) were investigated in NE Brazil in two natural areas, ‘restinga’ forest and seaside ‘restinga’, and in two areas of revegetated dunes after mining activity 20 and 8 years ago. Soil samples were collected during the dry (March) and wet (September) seasons of 2009 in Mataraca, Paraíba State, Brazil. Based on glomerospore morphology, 34 species of AMF were recorded, of which 29 were identified in field samples and five after trap culturing, with the greatest diversity and richness found in the dune revegetated 8 years ago. The sampling effort allowed an assessment of between 70 and 80 % of the species estimated for the areas by the first-order Jackknife index. Among the generalist species Gigaspora margarita was the only one found in all areas and during both collection periods. The similarity of AMF species between the revegetated areas and the seaside ‘restinga’ was >60 %, supporting the hypothesis that this area represents a source of propagules, but the substrate used for seedling production may also bring other species, enabling the recovery of the AMF community in the mined and revegetated dunes.
An intensive survey of barley fields in Jaipur district was done to investigate distribution, population and occurrence of VAM fungi in association with Hordeum vulgare. Different species of VAM were isolated from soil collected. The percentage occurrence of different VAM species varies to a different extent. The two main genera were identified viz. Glomus, Gigaspora and Scutellospora. Data collected from the farmer revealed that the barley fields showing association with VA mycorrhizal fungi had better growth comparatively to fields lacking VA mycorrhizal infection.