Influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the vegetative development of citrus rootstocks

Abstract

The use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the production of rootstocks is an alternative to accelerate plant growth. However, their response depends on the symbionts species and environment. This study aimed at evaluating the influence of AMF species [Scutelospora heterogama, Gigaspora margarita, Glomus etunicatum, Acaulospora sp. and a control (non-inoculated)] on the vegetative development of citrus rootstocks {citrange ‘Fepagro C37 Reck’ [P. trifoliata (L.) Raf. x C. sinensis (L.) Osbeck.] and ‘Kumquat’ [Fortunella hindsii (L.) Swingle]}. The experimental design consisted of split-plot randomized blocks, with 10 plants per plot and 3 replications. Height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf area and fresh and dry root and shoot mass were evaluated. The colonization of AMF in the roots was also assessed, determining the percentage of colonization and density of hyphae, arbuscules and vesicles. The rootstocks showed no difference for the plant growth parameters, in the absence of AMF. The AMF species colonized the rootstocks roots, but were only effective in accelerating the citrange ‘Fepagro C37 Reck’ growth, especially when inoculated with Scutelospora heterogama, Gigaspora margarita and Glomus etunicatum. The influence of AMF on vegetative development depends on the citrus rootstock species.