Diverse arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi species associate with indigenous trees in a natural forest

In terrestrial ecosystems, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)-land plant symbiosis helps plant for nutrient uptake and, protection from abiotic and abiotic stresses. It is important to study the AMF-plant relationship to fully realize the potential to exploit for plant growth, maintenance and establishment in different ecosystem. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the diversity, abundance and population densities of AMF and quantify root colonization of the indigenous trees in Munessa forest. To this end, composite fine roots and soil samples were collected from seven dominant indigenous trees within 10 m x10 m plots in the forest. AMF spores were extracted for taxonomic identification and AMF root colonization was determined. A total of 39 AMF morphotypes belonging to 7 genera were recovered. Of which, Glomus was the most dominant genus followed by Acaulospora, Glomus rubiforme was the most dominant species followed by Acaulospora myriocarpa. The highest genus and species richness was recorded from Croton macrostachyus and Millettia ferruginea in this study. Mean AMF spore density was significantly different (p < 0.05) among indigenous trees, ranging from 859.6 spores/100g of dry soil under Albizia shimperiana to2829.52 spores/100g of dry soil under Pouteria adolfiifriedericii. The highest hyphal and vesicular colonizations were observed in Millettia ferruginea (71%) and Celtis Africana (36.37%) respectively. Albizia shimperiana was the least colonized tree by all AMF structures. AMF spore density was positively correlated with soil available phosphorus (p < 0.05). Extensive studies are required to select AMF for growth promotion and recruitment of tree seedlings for plantation and, restoration of forest vegetation and rehabilitation of degraded lands.