Unveiling the Benefits and Dynamic Regulation of Mycorrhizal Technology in Cereal and Oilseed Production

The world’s food supply heavily relies on a limited number of crops, primarily cereal and oilseed crops. These crops play a pivotal role in the global agricultural economy and trade and are essential for human nutrition, livestock feed, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and various industrial applications. However, several challenges such as population growth, degradation and impoverishment of soil, contamination of natural resources, and faulty agricultural practices have hindered their growth and productivity. To address such issues, it is crucial to improve the food security while also protecting and promoting soil biodiversity and functionality through sustainable management practices. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbioses formed between cereals, oilseeds, and the Glomeromycota fungal group offer a promising solution for sustainable agriculture and food security. These symbiotic associations evolved approximately 400 million years ago, potentially aiding early terrestrial plants in nutrient uptake before the development of complex vascular root systems. This chapter provides an overview of recent advances in AM research aimed at sustaining and enhancing the agronomic potential of cereal and oilseed crops. We summarize the current understanding of AM responsiveness in these crops and explore the following questions: (1) Can these ancient symbioses still play a role in modern agriculture? and (2) How do various factors modulate the effects of AM on cereals and oilseeds in terms of production and quality?. By addressing these questions, our aim is to shed light on the potential applications of AM symbioses in contemporary agriculture. Additionally, we will highlight and discuss the factors influencing the beneficial effects of AM in cereal and oilseed production. This chapter underscores the importance of incorporating sustainable practices and leveraging the ecological advantages of mycorrhizal technology to ensure food security and promote the resilience of cereal and oilseed crops. The information presented here emphasizes the significance of a more sustainable approach toward enhancing crop productivity in the agriculture sector.