A review of fungi associated with Arabian desert soils

Abstract

e microbial communities associated with desert soils are poorly studied. Moleculartechniques have revealed that these communities are more diverse than previously thought. In thisreview, we have assembled and synthesized available literature on microbiological research directedtowards Arabian Desert soils, with primary emphasis on fungi. Recent molecular techniqueshave generated metagenomics data indicating a relatively high diversity of fungi in deserts, includingthe Arabian Desert. However, most publications dealing with Arabian Desert soils have reportedonly fungi that can be cultured, identified either molecularly or morphologically. As such,the fungal communities and their diversity are still largely unknown. Most functional studies in theArabian Desert deal with the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in improving plants’ survival inthe harsh conditions of desert. In addition, desert fungi might be utilized in developing sustainableagriculture and biomedical applications. Because of future challenges related to desertification andclimate change, there is a need for additional studies on heat and drought resistant fungi and thefunctions of these organisms in deserts.