Persistance and effect on the soil native community of an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi-based inoculum in the rhizosphere of maize plants.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF or AM fungi) are a group of root obligate biotrophs that exchange benefits with almost 90% of plant families. They are considered biofertilizers, since they provide the host with water, soil mineral nutrients and pathogen protection, in exchange of photosynthetic compounds. Therefore, AMF are primary biotic soil components that, when missing or impoverished, e.g. due to anthropic input, can lead to a less efficient ecosystem functioning. Consequently, the process of re-establishing the natural level of AMF richness can represent an interesting alternative to conventional fertilization practices, with a view to sustainable agriculture. The main strategy to achieve this goal is the direct re-introduction of an AMF pool (inoculum) into the target soil. After inoculation, it is essential to verify whether the inoculum effectively has the potential to colonize the host plant, persist into the soil, and affect the native AMF community.