Distribution of AM fungi in the rhizosphere soils of betel vine

Fungi, forming arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) are most ubiquitous. They form mutualistic relationship with almost all major groups of vascular plants. AM fungi playa major role in establishment and maintenance of the ecosystem. Mycorrhizal plants are better able to obtain their nourishment in soil and resist biotic and abiotic stresses. Attempt was made in the present investigation to study the qualitative and quantitative distribution of AM fungal spores in rhizosphere soils of betel (Piper bet/e Linn.) vine. The study was taken up in desi betel vine barejas (orchards) of four villages namely Tilli, Purabyau, Kakaganj and Deori of district Sagar (M.P.), situated in Central India. Betel vine is cultivated under moist, sub tropical and diffused light conditions with adequate soil moisture.