Summary
This review synthesises understanding of the evolutionary ecology of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) communities in agricultural systems, examining how common farming practices (tillage, fertilisation, monoculture) select for low-diversity AMF assemblages dominated by species with traits unfavourable to nutrient acquisition and host benefit. The authors propose that modifying these selection pressures represents a pathway to enhance AMF-mediated crop productivity and resilience, though they note the evidence base linking AMF diversity directly to agricultural outcomes remains incomplete.
Regional applicability
The review addresses universal principles of AMF ecology applicable across temperate and tropical agricultural systems, including United Kingdom farming. However, as a theoretical framework paper, specific implementation strategies would require adaptation to UK soil types, cropping systems, and climatic conditions.
Key measures
AMF species composition, functional traits (nutrient transfer, pathogen protection, water uptake, reproductive investment), crop productivity and sustainability outcomes
Outcomes reported
The review identifies evolutionary selection pressures (tillage, fertilization, continuous monoculture) that shape arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) diversity in agricultural systems and explores whether increased AMF diversity can be linked to crop productivity and sustainability. It examines whether farmers can actively modify these selection pressures to enhance AMF functioning and crop benefits.
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