Published in Scientific Papers. Series A. Agronomy, Vol. LXVIII, Issue 2
Written by Rumyana GEORGIEVA
The productivity of the agroecosystems is affected by the presence and the biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi communities. Understanding how mycorrhizal communities respond to various factors is crucial for promoting sustainable agriculture. This study examines how four cropping systems affect the natural arbuscular mycorrhizal community associated with maize. The trial involved three corn hybrids: DKC4949 (FAO 390), P8523 (FAO 260), and P9537 (FAO 390). The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications in a plot size of 25 m². For the tested period the highest number of spores (348 in 2022 and 370 in 2023) has been recorded by the hybrid P8523 when cultivated according to the no-till technology combined with mulching. Hybrid P9537, the highest yielding for the region, also exhibits the greatest rate of mycorrhizal colonization. Although no-till and its combination with mulching enhanced the colonization potential of mycorrhiza by all hybrids, the positive result has no quantitative manifestation and the yields remain the lowest by those variants.
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