JOURNAL of Soil Biology and Ecology

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal association in legume roots and nodules

Author: R. ASHWIN, R. PRAVEEN AND  D.J. BAGYARAJ

Abstract :

Legumes engage in tripartite symbiotic relationships with rhizobia and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. A study was conducted to know the direct association of AM fungi with nitrogen fixing rhizobium bacteroides, by determining the presence or absence of AM fungal hyphae or vesicles or arbuscules within the nodules. Eighteen different legumes were analysed for AM fungal colonization both in roots and nodules. Highest colonization rate was observed in Vigna unguiculata (84%) followed by Cicer arietinum (78%) and Rhynchosia heynei (75%). Least colonization rate was observed in Dolichos biflorus (45%) and Phaseolus limensis (48%). AM fungal colonization was not observed in nodules.

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