From roots to invasion: unravelling the significance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in invasive alien plants

Abstract

Sir, The intricate relationship between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and invasive alien plants (IAPs) needs to be better understood. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of plant invasions by influencing invasive alien plants’ biology and ecology. One significant impact is their effect on plant nutrient acquisition. Invasive species often exhibit rapid growth rates and aggressive competitive abilities, partly attributed to their efficient uptake of limiting nutrients through AMF symbiosis [1]. The enhanced nutrient uptake conferred by AMF allows invasive plants to proliferate even in nutrient-poor soils, giving them a competitive advantage over native flora. IAPs can have varying effects on mycorrhizal communities, depending on their symbiotic dependency and other plant traits. Some invasive species may hinder AMF and affect native plant competitiveness. Others may modify the mycorrhizal community to their advantage. These interactions can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of invasive species and the ecological consequences of their establishment [2]. Invasive alien plants can disrupt ecosystems and displace native flora, leading to a decline in biodiversity and ecological imbalances and they can cause significant economic losses by reducing agricultural productivity and affecting natural resources [3]. It may be useful to highlight the role of AMF in the establishment and spread of IAPs, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. Ageratum conyzoides, Parthenium hysterophorus, Lantana camara, Cannabis sativa and Prosopis juliflora have invaded vast areas, negatively impacting native plant diversity, agricultural productivity, and human health [4]. These IAPs often exhibit high levels of AMF colonisation. The interaction between AMF and IAPs can affect soil microbial communities and nutrient-cycling processes. AMF can alter the composition and activities of soil microbial communities, which, in turn, can influence ecosystem functioning [5]. Invasive plants with high AMF colonisation may modify soil microbial communities to favour their own growth, disrupting native soil processes and affecting the diversity and functioning of associated plant communities [6]. Exotic plant invasions can alter the diversity, richness, and functioning of soil microbial communities. Understanding these impacts is vital for effective management and restoration strategies aimed at mitigating the ecological consequences of IAPs. AMF associations with IAPs are specific and different invasive plant species can exhibit preferences for AMF species or strains, and these associations can vary across geographic regions [7]. Targeted management strategies will depend on the associations of the specific AMF species or strains with different IAPs. AMF-based biocontrol strategies have been explored, using specific AMF strains or communities that are antagonistic to invasive plants [8]. By introducing or enhancing the presence of these INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES 2023, VOL. 80, NO. 5, 1209–1211 https://doi.org/10.1080/00207233.2023.2224697