Role of Mycorrhizae in Crop Protection

Abstract

Mychorrizae are indigenous soil fungi that are found associated symbiotically with plant root system. They promote growth of the root system by protecting the plant from pathogen attack, acting directly or indirectly as biocontrol agents and offering plant resistance. These group of rhizosphere fungi also benefit from various biosynthetic substances produced by the root of the plant (root exudates). In this chapter, attempt is being made to present a balanced account of the various roles these fungi play in plant protection. This will give our cherish readers the opportunity to appreciate the mycorrhizal fungi as potential biocontrol agents or bioprotectants of soilborne plant pathogens.