Summary
This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) application in hydroponic systems compared to conventional soil-based cultivation. Mean AMF root colonisation was 52.3% in hydroponics versus 61.1% in soil systems. Whilst AMF application showed greater benefits for crop biomass and yield than for quality traits and nutrient uptake in hydroponics, approximately one-third to three-fifths of reviewed studies reported negligible or negative effects on these parameters. The authors recommend maintaining phosphorus levels between 0.15–15.5 mg L⁻¹ and selecting appropriate hydroponic techniques to optimise AMF performance.
Regional applicability
Findings are relevant to UK commercial horticultural operations employing hydroponic systems, particularly those seeking sustainable alternatives to chemical inputs. However, results suggest AMF efficacy is inconsistent in soilless systems, warranting careful system design and nutrient management before widespread adoption in UK glasshouse and vertical farming operations.
Key measures
Root colonisation rate (percentage of colonised root segments); crop biomass and yield; fruit and leaf quality parameters (antioxidants, phenols, sugars); leaf nutrient concentration; phosphorus concentration in nutrient solution (mg L⁻¹); hydroponic technique type
Outcomes reported
The meta-analysis quantified root colonisation rates by AMF in hydroponic versus conventional soil systems and assessed effects on crop biomass, yield, quality attributes (antioxidants, phenols, sugars) and tissue nutrient concentrations. Approximately one-third of studies showed no positive effect on biomass or yield, whilst 37% reported no beneficial effect on fruit or leaf quality and 60% showed no improvement in plant tissue nutrient levels.
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