Role of phosphate-solubilizing fungi in sustainable agriculture

Abstract

A variety of nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are generally used by crop plants extensively. Available P is one of the prominent limiting and decisive factors that determine the productivity of many agricultural soils. Mineral resources such as rock phosphate (RP) have potential to restore soil phosphorus content. The main drawback associated with the use of RP directly to the soil is that the release of phosphate is often not enough for uptake by crop plants. Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSM), especially plant growth-promoting fungal stains (PGPF), have the potential to solubilize insoluble P to soluble forms through chelation and ion exchange processes, organic acid production, thus making phosphorous available to plants. Therefore, the use of phosphate-solubilizing fungi (PSF) along with RP is considered to be a cost-effective means for facilitating the P availability. Application of biofertilizers reduces the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers on the health of plant vis-à-vis the fertility of the soil. Microorganisms as inoculants serve as integrated solutions to agro-environmental problems as they play a significant role in plant growth promotion, increase nutrient availability and support the health of plants. Hence, biofertilizers along with RP are used as an alternate source, which are both economic and eco-friendly. This chapter thus focuses on the role of PSM on P solubilization, plant growth promotion, PSF along with RP in managing a sustainable agricultural system for crop production.