Mycorrhizal Fungi: Their Role and Importance in Agriculture<br />Mycorrhizal fungi are a type of symbiotic fungi that live in plant roots and form a mutually beneficial relationship with them. These fungi improve plant absorption of nutrients, especially phosphorus, and water from the soil, in exchange for carbohydrates from the plant.<br />Types of Mycorrhizal Fungi:<br />1. Ectomycorrhizae:<br />Live on the surface of roots without penetrating their cells.<br />Found in trees such as pine and oak.<br />2. Endomycorrhizae (Endomycorrhizae or Arbuscular Mycorrhizae - AM):<br />Penetrate root cells and form specialized structures that aid in nutrient absorption.<br />Common in most agricultural crops such as wheat, rice, and vegetables.<br />Benefits of Mycorrhizal Fungi:<br />1. Improved Nutrient Absorption:<br />Increases the absorption of phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium.<br />Enhances the absorption of microelements such as iron and zinc.<br />2. Increase plant resistance to stress:<br />Helps in tolerating drought and water shortages.<br />Reduces the effects of salinity and toxins in the soil.<br />3. Improve soil structure:<br />Seeds secrete natural substances that help consolidate the soil and improve its aeration.<br />4. Enhance plant immunity:<br />Stimulates natural defense mechanisms against fungal and bacterial diseases.<br />5. Reducing the use of chemical fertilizers:<br />Reduces the need for synthetic phosphorus, which reduces costs and protects the environment.<br /><br />Uses of mycorrhizae in agriculture:<br />Growing field crops such as wheat and corn.<br />Growing fruit trees and horticultural plants.<br />Improving the productivity of organic crops and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.<br />How to apply mycorrhizae in agriculture:<br />Add them to the soil when planting or transplanting seedlings.<br />Treat seeds with them before planting to increase the germination rate.<br />Use them in irrigation systems to ensure their uniform distribution in the soil.<br />Conclusion<br />Mycorrhizal fungi are one of the best natural solutions for improving plant growth and increasing crop productivity in a sustainable manner. With the growing need for environmentally friendly agriculture, its use is becoming essential to enhance food security and reduce the environmental impact of chemical fertilizers.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University is the First university in Iraq.