Spatio-temporal variations of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi associated with Carica papaya L. in agro-based ecosystem of Goa, India

Abstract

Studies were carried out on spatio-temporal variations of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi associated with Carica papaya L. growing in two different geographic localities in Goa, India – Western Ghats and coastal area, differing in soil characteristics and plantation status. The study recorded considerable variation in root colonization, spore density and distribution of AM fungi in the selected sites. The mean total root colonization was at a maximum in the month of July, while spore density was highest in April. The study recorded a total 33 species of AM fungi. Western Ghats recorded a relatively higher diversity of AM fungi compared to coastal area. Species richness of AM fungi was at a maximum in April and coincided with maximum mean spore density. Edaphic as well as climatic factors influenced the AM fungal parameters. The study recorded the existence of seasonality in AM fungi.