Silvicultural Management Impact on Soil Mycorrhizal Association in Tigray Parklands Agroforestry Practices

Abstract

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a vital role in plant growth and nutrient uptake. This study examined the effects of canopy distance and pruning frequency on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) spore density and root colonization in tree species of the Hawzen District, Northern Ethiopia. Experimental plots were established with varying distances from the canopy and pruning regimes. AMF spore density ranged from 63.33 to 277.67 spores per 100 g of dry soil, with a mean of 147.25 spores. Despite different canopy distances and pruning frequencies, no significant variations in spore density were observed, suggesting an uneven distribution. All essential AMF structures were found in the tree roots, including hyphae, vesicles, and arbuscules. Total root colonization (TRC) was 95.36%, with arbuscular colonization (AC) at 13.10%, vesicular colonization (VC) at 9.11%, hyphal colonization (HC) at 31.63%, and mycorrhizal hyphal colonization (MHC) at 20.68%. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in TRC, AC, HC, and MHC among treatments, indicating a robust mycorrhizal association. However, VC remained unaffected. Canopy distance and pruning frequency have influence AMF distribution, The presence of all AMF structures in the tree roots emphasizes the crucial role of mycorrhizal symbiosis in promoting plant growth and resilience in the Hawzen District.