Optimizing chickpea growth: Unveiling the interplay of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobium for sustainable agriculture

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are beneficial root symbionts that form mutual partnerships with approximately 90% of plants. They provide water, nutrients, and protection from stresses while receiving photosynthetic products from the host plants. These fungi are essential components of the soil ecosystem, and their absence or decline can negatively impact ecosystem efficiency. In chickpea cultivation, the interaction between AMF and rhizobium is vital for soil processes and plant productivity. Alongside other beneficial microorganisms in the rhizosphere, they enhance the acquisition of essential nutrients like nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), promoting chickpea growth and development. These interactions are particularly crucial in low-input, eco-friendly agricultural systems that rely on biological processes to sustain soil quality and productivity without heavy use of agrochemicals. The combination of root nodules' N-fixation and AMF synergism also improves plant P nutrition and stimulates the proliferation of phosphate-solubilizing fungi. However, genetic diversity among native strains and their genes/enzymes can influence the interactions between AMF and rhizobium. To achieve sustainable chickpea production, it is crucial to gain a deeper understanding of these interactions, allowing optimized combinations of microorganisms to be used as effective soil inoculants for promoting plant growth and fitness. This review aims to provide insights into the mechanistic interactions of AMF and rhizobium, their impact on rhizosphere soil health, and the role of environmental factors in regulating chickpea productivity and sustainability.