Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in the Field: Triumphs and Failures

The usage of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) as a biofertilizer to improve crop production is a well-established phenomenon that is researched extensively. However, the full potential of this technology has not yet been realized due to many limitations and intricacies. Despite success stories of AMF as a biofertilizer, some trials perform poorly under specific conditions. Their effectiveness as a biofertilizer has been influenced by various factors, such as soil types, plant species, and environmental conditions, while others fail to show significant benefits due to sub-optimal application methods or lack of quality inoculum. In order to improve the effectiveness of AMF inoculants, researchers have explored various strategies, such as optimizing inoculum production, improving effective delivery methods, and developing more effective strains. In addition, advances in biotechnology including molecular tools and genomics have also provided new insights into AMF technology that pave the way to develop more efficient and targeted bioinoculants. For example, the screening and selection of specific AMF strains with the ability to withstand conditions of different agroecosystems and host species could optimize the effectiveness of bioinoculants and their role in sustainable agriculture. The potential of AMF inoculants to improve soil health and to promote crop productivity under various stress conditions has not been entirely realized due to certain limitations. In order to realize those future goals and to overcome limitations, the AMF technology needs few more giant steps in the right direction to pave the way for its place as a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to enhance crop productivity while curtailing the impacts imposed by conventional farming practices. Therefore, the use of AMF inoculants in future agriculture is imperative to bring forward resilient food systems which are crucial in meeting the global food demand while ensuring environmental sustainability and social equity.