Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) in Optimizing Nutrient Bioavailability and Reducing Agrochemicals for Maintaining Sustainable Agroecosystems

Abstract

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are one of the essential components of the soil microbiome playing a crucial role in nutrients cycling and mediation of plant responses to different environmental stresses. They also play pivotal role in controlling soil erosion, enhancing phytoremediation, and eliminating other harmful microorganisms and then sustaining agroecosystem. Several studies have investigated the positive effects of mycorrhizal symbiosis as biofertilizers those are capable of reducing use of chemical fertilizer by 25–90% particularly NPK depending on crop species, soil type, and management practices, while increasing productivity in the range of 16–78%. Similarly, AMF can also act as bio-controllers and decrease the application rate and frequency of pesticides. This is directly translated to the primary role of AMF in the sustaining agriculture services. Thus, understanding the interaction between AMF-soil, and plant plays a vital role in benefitting societies and agro-industries. In this regard, this review attempted to explore how can AMF symbiosis reduce agro-chemicals and maintain sustainable human welfare. It also addresses impact of agrochemicals on crop production and the main factor influencing the success of AMF symbioses. Generally, if this is applied wisely it keeps the food safe, the soil healthy, the water clean, the climate stable, and the ecosystem flourishing.