Field evalualtion of native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in the management of Striga in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.)

Abstract

An attempt was made to evaluate the native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) isolates for Striga suppression under farmer’s sugarcane field at Yeragatti village of Belgaum district, Karnataka. Selected levels of herbicides were also tested for comparison and their interactive effect with AMF. The results of the present investigations have revealed that Striga emergence was significantly inhibited in the treatment UASDAMF consortium (native) followed by UASDAMF9. The highest number of Striga infestation was recorded in the UIC plots. In addition, UASDAMF consortium (native) and AMF consortium (STD) stimulated plant growth, plant biomass and physiological parameters of sugarcane over non mycorrhized sugarcane plants in the presence of Striga. These findings confirm the effectiveness of AMF in protecting sugarcane against Striga infestation as well as promoting crop growth and reducing the soil Striga seed bank. It can be concluded that native isolates from Striga suppressive soils can be exploited as a biotic tool in the management of Striga.