Chapters authored
Saffron Endomycorrhizae: Diversity and Effect on Plant Growth and Corm Formation
Saffron cultivation is an important alternative for marginalized areas. Due to low soil fertility and low water availability, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are an essential alternative for maintaining fertility and water economy, stimulating growth and protecting plants against soil diseases. Studies on the diversity of endomycorrhizal fungi in the rhizosphere of Crocus sativus in Taliouine (Tinfat), located in Morocco, revealed the impact of age saffron plantations. A greater endomycorrhizal fungi density was recorded in the rhizosphere of saffron plants from plots operated for 2 years (138.66/100 g of soil) over that occupied for 10 years. Seventeen morphotypes of collected spores belong to 5 genera: Glomus (seven species), Acaulospora (seven species), Rhizophagus, Densicitata, and Funneliformis (one species). The weak endomycorrhizal species richness can be explained by the accumulation of C. sativus residues over time and its allelopathic effect. The beneficial effect of composite endomycorrhizal inocula, originating from Moroccan saffron plantations, was obvious in the growth of saffron plants, mother bulb number, the leaves length, root, and vegetative masses. These inocula mycorrhized over time saffron plants’ roots and can sporulate at the level of the rhizosphere of these plants. The use of composite inocula, as biofertilizers, can be one of the solutions for sustainable agriculture.
Part of the book: Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Agriculture