Contrasting Nitrogen Fertilisation Rates Alter Mycorrhizal Contribution to Barley Nutrition in a Field Trial

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Biology
• Soil Microbiology

Background:

• Controlled studies suggest arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) aid plant nitrogen (N) uptake.
• The role of AMF in crop N nutrition under field conditions is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the contribution of AMF to barley N uptake in a field setting.
• To assess the influence of N fertilization and barley cultivar on AMF's role in N acquisition.

Main Methods:

• Field trial using barley (Hordeum vulgare L.).
• Utilized 15N tracers in rhizosphere soil compartments.
• Varied N fertilization rates and barley cultivars.

Main Results:

• AMF significantly increased plant 15N uptake from root exclusion zones.
• AMF's contribution was influenced by N addition type, N fertilizer rate, and barley cultivar.
• Demonstrated a rapid and substantial influence of agricultural management on AMF-mediated N uptake.

Conclusions:

• AMF play a significant role in crop N uptake under field conditions.
• Agricultural management practices can substantially influence the effectiveness of AMF symbiosis.
• Highlights an overlooked pathway for crop N acquisition potentially optimizable through management.