This volume explores the various functions and potential applications of mycorrhizas, including topics such as the dynamics of root colonization, soil carbon sequestration and the function of mycorrhizas in extreme environments. Some contributions focus on the use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in various crop production processes, including soil management practices, their use as biofertilizers and in relation to medicinal plants. Other chapters elucidate the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in the alleviation of plant water stress and of heavy metal toxicity, in the remediation of saline soils, in mining-site rehabilitation and in the reforestation of degraded tropical forests. In addition to their impact in ecosystems, the economic benefits of applying arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are discussed. A final chapter describes recent advances in the cultivation of edible mycorrhizal mushrooms.

This book, prepared by participants of the European network COST ACTION 810 (1989-93) is the outcome of a meeting held in Switzerland (Einsiedeln, September 29 to October 2, 1993) on the "Impact of arbuscular mycorrhizas on sustainable agriculture and natural ecosystems". COST(Cooperation Scientifique et Technique) Networks were created in 1971 by the Commission of European Communities, and later enlarged to include non-European Member States, to promote pre-competitive scientific and technical research in fields of common interest. During the eighties, COST ACTIONS were launched in bio technological fields, including the network on arbuscular mycorrhizas. Arbuscular mycorrhizas are a universally found symbiosis between plants and certain soil fungi and essential components of soil-plant systems. They act as a major inter face by influencing or regulating resource allocation between abiotic and biotic components of the soil-plant system. Arbuscular mycorrhizas are involved in many key ecosystem processes including nutrient cycling and conservation of soil struc ture, and have been shown to improve plant health through increased protection against abiotic and biotic stresses. Sustainability can be defined as the successful management of resources to satisfy changing human needs while maintaining or enhancing the quality of the environ ment and conserving resources. Increasing environmental degradation and instability, due to anthropogenic activities and in particular the increasing fragility of the soil resource, has led to an increased awareness of the need to develop practices resulting in more sustainable natural and agroecosystems.

Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM) is the most common mycorrhizal type involved in agricultural systems, and the most widespread plant root symbiosis. The fungi involved (Glomales) are known to promote plant growth and health by acting as biofertilizers, bioprotectors and bioregulators. The main aim of this book is to provide readers with theoretical and applied knowledge essential for the use of AM fungi in improving plant health and fitness, production of high quality food and in conservation of natural resources. The different chapters target understanding the role of AM fungi in sustainable crop production, discussing ways to improve biological equilibria between microorganisms in the mycorrhizosphere, analysing genetic, physiological, cellular and molecular bases of AM functioning and establishing technologies for inoculum production, according to the regulatory guidelines for application.

The roots of most plants are colonized by symbiotic fungi to form mycorrhiza, which play a critical role in the capture of nutrients from the soil and therefore in plant nutrition. Mycorrhizal Symbiosis is recognized as the definitive work in this area. Since the last edition was published there have been major advances in the field, particularly in the area of molecular biology, and the new edition has been fully revised and updated to incorporate these exciting new developments. Over 50% new material Includes expanded color plate section Covers all aspects of mycorrhiza Presents new taxonomy Discusses the impact of proteomics and genomics on research in this area

Microbes are essential components of the ecosystem. Mycorrhizal fungi in the rhizosphere support or inhibit plant growth naturally. Plant growth-promoting fungi help to improve crop yield and crop sustainability in adverse environmental conditions including soil salinity, drought, high and low temperatures, and infections from pathogens and pests. Mycorrhizal fungi secrete plant growth-promoting substances, enzymes, and other metabolites, all of which play a vital role in enhancing the productivity of economically important plants. These fungi also reduce the need to use chemicals in agriculture, which helps to minimize soil pollutants. This book provides updated information on the production and utilization of mycorrhizal fungi for sustainable agriculture and forestry.

Zusammenfassung: This 2-volume book is an up-to-date overview of current progress in Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal (AMF) technique development, inoculum production and its quality regulations, application in agriculture, horticulture, agroforestry, and other ecosystems, along with nutrient management for sustainable food production. It contains the current advancement in basic and molecular techniques, challenges, opportunities, and determinates of various AMF production methods and major tools and techniques for their field application. Production and development of AMF is rapidly evolving and requires a multidisciplinary approach with up-to-date knowledge to broaden and strengthen the perspective of researchers involved in this domain. The volumes offer new insight and cutting-edge information for novices and experts such as students, academicians, researchers, environmentalists, industrialists, and others interested in mycorrhiza. The first volume covers some basic isolation techniques, enumeration, and molecular studies with recent advances in various in-vitro and in-vivo production technologies, regulatory issues, and application methodologies for field inoculation. It also discusses AMF application in various agroecosystems for sustainable agricultural production and a healthier planet

A mycorrhizae is a symbiotic relationship between plants and fungi. Mycorrhizal fungi play important roles in plant root systems and soil biology and chemistry. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Agriculture - New Insights provides a comprehensive overview of arbuscular mycorrhizae. It is divided into three sections: “The Role of Mycorrhizae Fungi in Plant Growth”, “The Effect of Mycorrhizae on Plant Nutrition and Protection” and “Mycorrhizae Biology and Development”. Chapters provide a better understanding of these fungi, their application and management, and their effects on different types of plants.