Ecological Assessment of Rhizosphere Fungal Diversity in Semi-Arid Agricultural Soils of Maharashtra, India

Rhizospheric fungi play a vital role in nutrient cycling and soil fertility in semi-arid agroecosystems. This study assessed the diversity and seasonal dynamics of rhizosphere fungi associated with sugarcane cultivation in Shahada and Navapur talukas of Nandurbar district, Maharashtra. Soil samples were collected from 10–20 cm depth, and fungal isolates were obtained using the serial dilution technique on PDA medium. Soil physicochemical parameters including pH, moisture, organic carbon, and NPK were analysed and correlated with fungal distribution. The soils exhibited near-neutral pH (6.3–7.7), moderate moisture (14.7–22.43%), and organic carbon content ranging from 0.63–0.91%. Available nitrogen varied between 228.22 and 374.33 kg/ha, indicating spatial fertility differences. Seasonal analysis showed higher fungal contribution during summer and rainy seasons compared to winter. Dominant genera included Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, and Rhizopus. The presence of Fusarium solani and Rhizoctonia solani indicated coexistence of beneficial and pathogenic fungi. The findings demonstrate that fungal community structure is strongly influenced by soil properties and seasonal variations. This study provides baseline data for region-specific soil management and sustainable sugarcane production strategies.