Title : Crucial role of fungi in environmentally sustainable agriculture
Abstract:
To produce more, better and safer food we must be able to do so while promoting the sustainable use of agricultural resources. The increase in agricultural production is currently through the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and developments in plant breeding and genetic skills. In the naturally existing ecology, rhizospheric soils have biological living beings to favor the plant development, nutrient assimilation, stress tolerance, disease deterrence, carbon seizing and others. These organisms include mycorrhizal fungi, bacteria, actinomycetes, etc. which solubilize nutrients and assist the plants in up taking by roots. Amongst them, vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi have key importance in natural ecosystem, but high rate of chemical fertilizer in agricultural fields is diminishing its importance. The majority of the terrestrial plants form association with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). This symbiosis confers benefits directly to the host plant’s growth and development through the acquisition of phosphorus (P) and other mineral nutrients from the soil by the AMF. They may also enhance the protection of plants against pathogens and increases the plant diversity. Proper management of AMF has the potential to improve the profitability and sustainability of agricultural systems. With greater interests and a consensus on the need to promote sustainable development, mycorrhiza fungi have an important role to play in reducing the harmful effects of agricultural inputs like fertilizers for improving plant growth, and pesticides, fungicides, insecticides in controlling several diseases. It is a cost-effective and non-destructive means of achieving high productivity leading to establishment of a viable, low-input farming system. Integrating AMF into agricultural practices will promote environmentally sustainable agriculture.
Audience Takeaway:
- Explain how the audience will be able to use what they learn?
Mycorrhizal relationships are as old as plants and have been shaping the earth for millions of years but since the 20th century agriculture practices have almost destruct the underground communities. Mycorrhiza fungi have an important role to play in reducing the harmful effects of agricultural inputs.
- How will this help the audience in their job?
We all must realize the importance of mycorrhizal associations in the maintenance of the health of the soil.
- Does this provide a practical solution to a problem that could simplify or make a designer’s job more efficient?
Mycorrhiza fungi have a main role in the adaptation to the worsening climate emergency.
