Diagnóstico de la asociación simbiótica micorriza arbuscular en el cultivo de papa (solanum tuberosum) en la zona sur del Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: In the present study we assessed the status of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis of the potato crop by determining root colonization percentages and morphotypes of spores to establish putative genera in the four sampling zones in the provinces of Cañar, Azuay and Loja. Twelve crops of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi were established, three for each zone using soil and roots from the 4 areas sampled in Plantago lanceolata as host plant and we attempt its isolation in culture pure using two different methods. In the microscopic analysis of the plant roots from the sampled sites, significant results for percent AMF colonization was found in Loja (Saraguro-Carboncillo) 75%, while the number of spores was low for the four sites. The preliminary determination of morphotypes to establish tentative genera, showed the presence of Acaulospora and Glomus. No positive results were obtained on isolations attempts. Colonization and number of AMF spores in potato crops in general was low, perhaps due to various anthropogenic factors such as: inappropriate practices of soil management and crop intensive soil tillage, prolonged periods of fallow, lack of crop rotation and indiscriminate use of fungal agrochemical inputs and inorganic fertilizers have negative effects on populations of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.