Glomalin: A Miracle Protein for Carbon Sequestration

Abstract

AMF (Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi)’s hyphae and spore walls releases a special kind of glycoprotein i.e. Glomalin. AMF belongs to the phylem Glomeromycota which was previously known as Zygomycota. There exists a symbiotic relationship of this fungi with terrestrial plants (~80%), that includes major commercial species viz. wheat, sorghum, corn, and forage species. AMF strongly binds and firmly hold the walls of hyphae and spores. On decomposition of hyphae, glomalin is released in soil. Glomalin depicts recalcitrant behavior and hydrophobic characteristics, and hence prevent the loss of water and nutrients from hyphae (ERM). It can remain as such in soil for years. It’s half-life in soil can vary from 6-42 years thus placing it in the category of stable biomolecules. Glomalin Related Soil Protein (GRSP) is quite abundant in wide range of soil The GSRP were found in relative abundance in a wide range of soils (2-15 mg g-1), whether it is acid or calcareous or under various crops, such as cereals, vegetables, forage, and agroforestry systems. It plays a significant role in enhancing the soil organic carbon as it acts as an effective carbon sink. It possess strong cementing ability and hence binds the aggregates to enhance structural stability and prevent loss of carbon and nitrogen. GRSP positively correlates with the carbon present in soil.