Analysis of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity Associated With Pigeon Pea (Cajanus Cajan L.) In Osmanabad District, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a crucial role in enhancing plant growth, nutrient uptake, and soil fertility through their symbiotic association with plant roots. The present study focuses on evaluate the diversity and distribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi associated with pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L.) cultivated in various talukas of Osmanabad District, Maharashtra. Root and rhizosphere soil samples were collected from 08 pigeon pea growing location to assess the extent of AMF root colonization and spore density in the soil. The highest root colonization was observed in Paranda Taluka (75 %), while the lowest colonization was recorded in Lohara Taluka (17%). The widespread occurrence of AMF across the study area suggests their ecological significance in pigeon pea agroecosystems. Among the identified fungal genera, Acaulospora and Glomus species were the predominant and most frequently isolated. The study highlights the ecological significance of AMF in pigeon pea cultivation and their potential role in improving soil health and supporting sustainable agricultural productivity in the Osmanabad region