Mycorrhizal Biotechnology

Several studies have demonstrated that mycorrhizal associations play vital role in plant nutrition. They greatly increase the efficiency of nutrient and water uptake, enhance resistance to pathogens, and buffer plant species against several environmental stresses and drought resistance. Mycorrhizae also improve plant growth and survival in soils co

The second edition of Mycorrhiza falls into a time period of excep tionally rapid growth in mycorrhizal research. Therefore the edi tors have been most pleased with the decision of the Springer Verlag to revise the first edition and to incorporate the remarkable advances experienced in the mycorrhizal field. The pace of discovery has been particularly fast at the two poles of biological complexity, the molecular events leading to changes in growth and differentiation, as well as the factors regulating the structure and diversity of natural populations and communities. Therefore the most significant changes introduced in the new edition of this book are found within these topics. Not only were many chapters up dated, but also new chapters have replaced existing ones. The individual decisions have not been easy, since valuable contribu tions had to be sacrificed in favour of new aspects; but the authors hope that a highly topical new edition will be of greatest benefit for a rapidly expanding field of research. We welcome comments and critics from readers. Since it was possible again to find leading scientists as contribu tors, we are confident that this revised second edition will stimulate further progress and contribute to a deeper understanding of advances in the mycorrhizal field. We are grateful to the Springer Verlag, especially Dr. Dieter Czeschlik, for his continued interest and active help. Dr. Maja Hilber-Bodmer and Dr.

This book is perfectly timed for the worldwide explosion of interest in mycorrhizal research. With a strong emphasis on the latest findings in genetics and molecular biology, it contains all current information and speculation on the structure, function and biotechnological applications of mycorrhizas.

Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM) is the most common mycorrhizal type involved in agricultural systems, and the most widespread plant root symbiosis. The fungi involved (Glomales) are known to promote plant growth and health by acting as biofertilizers, bioprotectors and bioregulators. The main aim of this book is to provide readers with theoretical and applied knowledge essential for the use of AM fungi in improving plant health and fitness, production of high quality food and in conservation of natural resources. The different chapters target understanding the role of AM fungi in sustainable crop production, discussing ways to improve biological equilibria between microorganisms in the mycorrhizosphere, analysing genetic, physiological, cellular and molecular bases of AM functioning and establishing technologies for inoculum production, according to the regulatory guidelines for application.

Mycorrhizas are symbioses between fungi and the roots of higher plants. More than 90% of all plant species have the potential to form such associations, which are often essential for optimal plant growth and productivity. Leading experts cover aspects of - structure and function; - molecular biology; - biotechnological applications; - ecophysiology; - systematics.

This new volume delivers the remarkable theoretical and practical findings on the outstanding applications of mycorrhizal fungi in recovering plant health, in producing the mycorrhizal edible forest trees, and in conserving natural resources. It examines the recent research studies based on mycorrhizal technology that have explored the positive impact of root symbiosis on plant adaptation to climate-associated abiotic stressors, such as salinity, drought, flooding, and high temperatures. The book includes thirteen chapters, partitioned into four different parts, authored by international experts and researchers from different domains of plant-mycorrhiza research. Part I explains the role of mycorrhiza in plant growth, in the metabolism of minerals, and in biological control. The book goes on to discuss the extensive commercial applications of mycorrhiza fungi in various industrial sectors including agriculture, horticulture, and biotechnology. Chapters investigate the diverse roles of mycorrhizal fungi in managing different stress conditions. And lastly, the volume provides in-depth analyses of the ways that commercialized mycorrhizal technology can help to maintain global environmental sustainability and food security. Key features: Reveals the complex associations of mycorrhizal communities with soil and other soil microbes Presents the inoculum production practices for appropriate application of mycorrhizal technology in various plant production systems Discusses the commercial harvesting and applications of mycorrhizal forest trees for sustainable agricultural development, and Reviews the current advancements and upcoming challenges on way of mycorrhizal technology Research in mycorrhizal technology is significantly evolving, and cutting-edge findings have provided understanding in how complex plant-mycorrhiza associations work. This volume is designed and edited to serve as a resource text for postgraduate students, botanists, microbiologists, biotechnologists, environmental biologists, and industry professionals who have keen interest and attention on beneficial services and commercialization of mycorrhizal technology.