Mycorrhizae and soil health

Description

Mycorrhizal fungi establish symbiotic associations with roots of ~80% of plant families and have an important role in sustaining plant growth and soil health. This chapter explores the diverse roles of mycorrhizal fungi in mediating soil ecosystem services and improving soil health, including aggregate formation, remediation of soil heavy metals and reclamation of degraded soils, soil organic matter (SOM) formation, nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. The chapter also looks at the ways mycorrhizae can alleviate both abiotic stresses such as nutrient deficiency and biotic stresses such as disease.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Mycorrhizae and their role in soil health 3 Mycorrhizae and soil composition 4 Mycorrhizae and soil organic matter formation 5 Mycorrhizae, nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration 6 Mycorrhizae, abiotic and biotic stress 7 Mycorrhizal interaction with other soil microorganisms 8 Conclusion and future trends 9 Where to look for further information 10 Acknowledgements 11 References