The Role of Plant-Mycorrhizal-Fungal Interactions in Soil Health and Carbon Sequestration in Agroecosystems

Abstract

Abstract: Understanding the intricate interactions between plants, mycorrhizal fungi, and soil health is crucial for sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation. This review synthesizes current research to elucidate the multifaceted role of plantmycorrhizal-fungal interactions in soil health and carbon sequestration in agroecosystems. A meta-analysis of 75 studies spanning diverse ecosystems and plant species reveals a significant positive correlation between mycorrhizal colonization and soil organic carbon content, with an average increase of 25% compared to non-mycorrhizal systems. Furthermore, mycorrhizal symbiosis enhances soil structure and aggregation, promoting water retention and nutrient cycling, which are essential for maintaining soil fertility and resilience to environmental stressors. The contributions of different mycorrhizal types (arbuscular, ectomycorrhizal, and ericoid) to soil carbon dynamics are also examined, highlighting their unique roles in carbon allocation and stabilization. Additionally, the review discusses the potential implications of plant-mycorrhizal-fungal interactions for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions through enhanced carbon sequestration in agricultural soils. Insights into the mechanisms underlying these interactions, including mycorrhizal-mediated changes in root exudates, microbial communities, and soil enzymatic activities, are discussed. Overall, this review underscores the importance of integrating mycorrhizal symbiosis into agroecosystem management practices to enhance soil health, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience.