Isolation of endophytic AM fungi from Red Delicious (Malus Domestica) orchids coupled with ryegrass of the Kashmir region–An impactful effect on the crop plants

Abstract

Mycorrhizal fungi are associated in mutualistic symbiosis relationships with the fine roots of plants. These fungi help enhance plant health to combat biotic and abiotic stresses.The present investigation was undertaken to isolate the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) from apple orchards in Kashmir. We collected rhizospheric soil, feeder roots, and a commonly found forage grass (ryegrass) from three apple-growing districts in the Kashmir valley (Kulgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama). Collateral isolation of AM fungi from soil and root samples was performed through wet-sieving, decanting, and root culture methods. First, INVAM is a referential source to identify the AM fungi. Then, the isolated AM fungi were inoculated with carrot, wheat, and maize to check the association and overall improved growth and development in a set of pot trials.