Soil–environment interaction with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in three cold desert plants of Himalaya, India

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMFs) are well known to establish symbiotic associations with plant roots, and assist to enhance nutrient uptake and contribute to improve soil structure and fertility. This study investigated the AMF diversity and physiochemical properties of rhizosphere soil associated with three ethno-medicinal plants— Inula racemosa, Saussurea costus (cultivated), and Hyoscyamus niger (wild) from cold desert areas of Himachal Pradesh, India. Results showed that soil samples were moderately alkaline (pH 7.17–8.23), with low to medium levels of organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Cultivated soils showed higher macronutrient levels than noncultivated lands. Principal component analysis indicated a positive correlation between root colonization and pH, organic carbon, and phosphorus, while a negative correlation was found with electric conductivity, nitrogen, and potassium. Root colonization varied across medicinal plants, with Glomus and Acaulospora being the dominant AMF genera. A total of 14 arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal species from 6 genera were identified. The study indicates a potentially rich diversity of AMFs in cold desert ecosystems, particularly within the Glomeraceae family. Utilizing these AMFs in off site cultivation and conservation efforts, through single spore cultures or AMF consortia, could be beneficial for promoting sustainable growth of these valuable plants.