Effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the growth and development of maize (Zea mays L.) Grown in Bangui (Central African Republic) under controlled conditions

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on the growth and development of maize (Zea mays) in a greenhouse at the University of Bangui  for three months under controlled conditions. Data collection was done at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing (DAS) for growth parameters (plant height, crown diameter, number of leaves) and above-ground, root and total biomass were evaluated at 60 and 90 DAS. According to the results of this study, height growth showed a significant (P < 0.05) improvement of 106.7 cm when plants were inoculated with Gigaspora rosea. The treatment with the composite (G2+G3) showed higher diameter (15.50 mm), followed by the Acaulospora laevis strain with a diameter of 14.77 mm. The highest biomass values were obtained with the G4 mix strain (322.95 g for total biomass at 60 DAS and 535.44 g for total biomass at 90 DAS). From this study, it is evident that mycorrhizal fungi biofertilizers provide significant benefits to the plant, and can be used to improve corn growth and yield. Thus, this study could be further developed in the field. Key words:  Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Gigaspora rosea, Acaulospora laevi, Funneliformis mosseae, growth, development, maize.