How Mycorrhiza Enhances Phosphorus Nutrition in Crops ?
What is Mycorrhiza?
Mycorrhiza refers to a mutualistic association between certain beneficial fungi and plant roots. The fungi colonize the root system and extend their network into the soil through thread-like structures called hyphae. These hyphae act like extensions of the root, exploring the soil more efficiently than roots can alone.
The Phosphorus Problem in Soil
Although many soils have phosphorus, much of it is in insoluble forms bound to calcium, iron, or aluminum compounds. This makes it unavailable to plants. Even after applying chemical phosphorus fertilizers, only 15–30% is taken up by crops—the rest gets fixed in the soil.
How Mycorrhiza Helps in Phosphorus Uptake
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Increased Surface Area: Mycorrhizal hyphae can extend several centimeters beyond the root zone, accessing phosphorus that roots can't reach.
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Solubilizing Phosphorus: Some mycorrhizal fungi release organic acids and enzymes that help solubilize bound phosphorus, making it absorbable by plants.
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Direct Transfer: The fungi absorb phosphorus from the soil and directly transport it into plant roots, bypassing the usual barriers of uptake.
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Improved Root Architecture: Mycorrhiza enhances root branching and density, allowing for better nutrient foraging.
Crop Benefits from Mycorrhiza–Phosphorus Synergy
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Faster and stronger early growth due to better P availability.
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Higher yields in phosphorus-deficient soils.
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Reduced fertilizer requirements, leading to cost savings and less environmental impact.
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Better resistance to drought and stress due to enhanced root systems.
Crops That Benefit the Most
Crops like maize, wheat, banana, onion, and soybean show significant responses to mycorrhiza inoculation in low-phosphorus soils. It is especially useful in organic and sustainable farming systems.
