THE IMPORTANCE OF MYCORRHIZAE IN MICROBIOLOGY AND HOW IT RELATES TO FOOD SECURITY

Many plant species are mycorrhiza-dependent in terms of soil fertility level and plant species genetics.

Arbuscular mycorrhizae fungi (AMF) have a significant impact on better soil health, crop rotation, plant and soil biodiversity, sustainable agriculture development, plant species disease resistance, improved soil structure development, mineral nutrient and water uptake, and carbon sequestration. These collaborations affect soil structure and carbon sequestration as well. By increasing the root-absorbing surface area, mycorrhizal fungi efficiently absorb important immobile nutrients like phosphorus, zinc, copper, and nitrogen, especially in nutrient-poor soils. In addition to helping with nitrogen fixation, mycorrhizae also aid in nutrient cycling and plant health. Mycorrhizal fungi are crucial elements of soil microbiology that have a big impact on food security. AMF help the plant by reducing chemical fertilizers and biocides to get maximum benefits. In this way, plant species especially plants whose fruits and tissues are edible get practical benefits for farmers. They promote soil fertility, raise soil stability, improve plant health, and enhance nutrient uptake, all of which support sustainable farming practices. Understanding and encouraging these symbiotic interactions can lead to more robust and efficient food systems, which are required to meet the rising global demand for food while minimizing environmental effects. The impacts of greenhouse gases, which cause climate change, can be lessened with the aid of mycorrhiza.

It has been shown after extensive research that the function of mycorrhizae varies according to how the soil and plants are managed by mycorrhizal fungi. It has been found that, in long-term field tests, the use of mycorrhizal fungus and soil-plant management techniques boosted the growth and nutrient intake of many plants. Contribute to reducing fertilizer use as well. This paper aims to provide an overview of the soil organisms, especially AMF as a bio fertilizer and bio stimulant and their effect on growth and nutrient uptake.