Ecophysiology, quality, and mycorrhizal dependency in musa spp. (cv. grand naine) seedlings

Abstract

The use of alternative technologies involving biological processes, with economic and ecological gains, is desirable for both the expansion of Musa spp. farming and the renovation of areas with low yields. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can stimulate plant growth, especially by increasing the absorption of phosphorus (P) and other nutrients. This study analyzes the influence of AMF on the growth and physiology of micropropagated Musa spp. plants submitted to doses of P. The experimental design was randomized blocks, in a 5 x 5 factorial arrangement, in which the factors were inoculation with AMF (Glomus clarum, Gigaspora margarita, Gigaspora albida, Clareoideoglomus etunicatum, and the control without AMF) and five doses of P (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg kg-1), with four replicates. The application of P doses increased growth in micropropagated Musa spp. seedlings, regardless of mycorrhizal inoculation. The highest rates of mycorrhizal colonization occurred at the lowest P doses, and the dose of 50 mg kg-1 P provided better conditions for mycorrhizal formation in all AMF species under study. The symbioses with AMF, as well as the use of P, increased photosynthesis rate, thus favoring the growth, development, and quality of Musa spp. seedlings. Species G. clarum, C. etunicatum, and G. margarita were the most promising for plant growth. Index terms: mycorrhizae, soil microbiology, bananas, seedling production.