Abstract

EXPLORING MYCORRHIZAL SYMBIOSIS: A STUDY OF VAM IN EUCALYPTUS FROM VARIOUS REGIONS OF TELANGANA, INDIA

R. Y. Giri, S. M. Reddy, T. Dinaker Chinna, T. Shankar and C. Rama Raju*

.

Abstract

Mycorrhizal associations, particularly vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (VAM), are crucial mutualistic symbiosis between plants and fungi, enhancing plant growth and nutrient uptake. This study investigated the diversity, distribution, and colonization patterns of VAM associated with Eucalyptus plantations in various geographical locations. Using a modified wet sieving and decanting technique for quantitative estimation and PVLG mounting for identification, VAM propagules were isolated and characterized based on their morphological features. Root colonization was determined by the percentage of infected cells after clearing and staining. A total of 28 VAM species across six genera (Acaulospora, Endogone, Entrophospora, Glomus, Sclerocystis, and Scutellospora) were identified. Glomus fasciculatum was found to be the most dominant and widely distributed species, followed by Acaulospora mellea, Endogone sp., and Glomus macrocarpum. The study revealed significant variation in VAM diversity and colonization rates across different soil types and locations. For instance, Bhadrachalam, Kothagudem, and Rampur showed heavy root infection, while Madikonda and Godavarikhani exhibited lower colonization. Notably, no clear correlation was observed between soil type, number of VAM propagules, soil pH, and the extent of VAM colonization. These findings highlight the widespread presence and ecological importance of VAM in Eucalyptus ecosystems, with their distribution and colonization influenced by complex environmental factors beyond simple soil parameters. These findings are crucial for developing sustainable forestry practices in Eucalyptus plantations.

Keywords: VAM, Eucalyptus plantations, Root colonization, Fungal diversity, Soil characteristics.