Interaction of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi with biotic and abiotic factors and its ecological role and significance

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is one of the most ancient and extensive mutualistic relationships seen in nature. It is formed between terrestrial plants and fungus belonging to the phylum Glomeromycota. Plant nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and ecosystem stability all depend on these interactions, which have existed for more than 400 million years. After colonizing plant roots, AM fungus creates complex structures called arbuscules inside cortical cells that enable two-way nutrition exchange. In exchange for carbohydrates produced by the plant, fungi help plants obtain essential minerals including potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus. We now have a better knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the beginning and maintenance of this symbiosis because to recent research that has identified important genetic and molecular pathways controlling it. AM fungi have an impact on soil microbial populations and structure in addition to nutrient exchange, which greatly aids in ecological preservation and sustainable land usage. Their use as biofertilizers promotes ecologically friendly agriculture by providing promising substitutes for artificial fertilizers. Even though AM fungi are obligatory biotrophs and difficult to cultivate on their own, these obstacles are being overcome by developments in genomes, imaging, and molecular tools. In light of the growing environmental difficulties facing the world, a better understanding of AM symbiosis holds considerable promise for raising crop yield, promoting sustainable agricultural methods, and improving soil health.