SENSITIVITY OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI IN OLD-GROWTH FORESTS: DIRECT EFFECT ON GROWTH AND SOIL CARBON STORAGE

Arbuscular mycorrhizal association is ubiquitous and can be found in majority of natural habitats. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a key role in the absorption of plant nutrients, soil aggregation and fertility. The basic role of AMF in the plant growth is to increase the absorption and translocation of relatively immobile ions and elements. In the past, studies have focused primarily on the mycorrhiza development and their general role in the growth of plants. Here, in this review manuscript, we highlight the role of AMF in the growth of old forests. In many studies, it has been found that concentration of phosphorous (P) decreases with the stand age which as a result leads to phosphorous (P) deficiency. This phosphorous (P) deficiency is considered as a cause of slow growth of old forests. In this review article, we argued that apart from the low concentration of phosphorous (P), weak arbuscular mycorrhizal associations are also a cause of slow growth of old forests. Furthermore, we also highlight the ecological role of AMF in the soil carbon storage. AMF provide physical (hyphae frame) and chemical support (Glomalin) to the dispersed soil particles to create stable aggregated soil structure. The Glomalin compound which is released by AMF acts like a glue and consequently increases soil aggregation. The soil organic matters stored in soil aggregates are less exposed to decomposition. Hence, soil can be used as a large sink where a huge amount of carbon can be stored in the form of soil organic matters which as a result can contribute to the mitigation of global climate change.