Role of AMF in Organic Matter Decomposition, Carbon Sequestration and Climate Change Mitigation

Most land plants and abundant soil fungi in the phylum of Glomeromycota create arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) symbiosis, promoting nutrient transfer and soil carbon (C) sequestration. AMF influences C fluctuations between plants and atmosphere. The soil nutrient, particularly phosphorus (P), is exchanged for C from host plant which has been static via photosynthetic processes. Carbon is transported from host plant to intraradical hyphae through the reciprocal interface to the extraradical hyphal network extending to the soil environment. AM fungal hyphal turnover quantity in soil related to the hyphal network inside the roots is difficult to estimate. Rhizodeposition or the generation of soil aggregates by AM hypha, may support in C sequestration in soil. The methods by which AM fungi control nutrient availability, and the sequestration of C in the soil are connected. Phosphorus and nitrogen (N) absorption and transport in the AMF symbiosis are triggered by C variability from the root to the fungus.