Host specific Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF): A Boost to Growth and Phosphorus Regulation in Cotton (Gossypium herbaceum)

Abstract

Cotton holds paramount importance as a natural resource with considerable economic, social, and environmental implications. This study focused on isolating host-specific mycorrhizal spores for the Mahyco cultivar of Gossypium herbaceum. A homogenous mixture of soils (HMS) was utilized, incorporating eight widely used cultivars in Mahabubnagar District, and maintained for 60 days. After the designated period, the well-grown Mahyco plant was carefully extracted and transferred to a pot containing sterilized soil, ensuring sterile conditions for 8 weeks. Mycorrhizal colonization was observed in roots, and the soil was sieved to isolate host-specific spores. Abundant spores of Glomus mosseae were identified based on the manual by Schenk and Perez (1987). These spores were propagated through a funnel experiment and then transferred to pots for mass cultivation. The efficiency of Glomus mosseae was tested with four different soils in Mahabubnagar District. Deep black soil exhibited optimal growth in terms of plant development and phosphorus uptake, followed by shallow black soil. This method demonstrates high host specificity for geographically grown cotton and can be adapted for the sustainable cultivation of cotton.