PRODUCT
Rhizophagus intraradices
A proven arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus for root zone performance
Rhizophagus intraradices, formerly known as Glomus intraradices, is a widely used arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) that forms beneficial associations with the roots of many crop and plant species.
Through this symbiotic relationship, the fungus helps extend the functional reach of the root system, improving access to nutrients and water in the surrounding soil.
As one of the most widely applied AMF species in agriculture, R. intraradices is valued for its role in root development, phosphorus uptake, micronutrient acquisition, soil structure improvement, and plant resilience under variable growing conditions.
Mode of action
Rhizophagus intraradices colonizes plant roots and forms specialized structures called arbuscules inside root cortical cells. These arbuscules create an exchange interface between the plant and the fungus.
The plant supplies the fungus with carbon compounds produced through photosynthesis. In return, the fungus develops fine hyphal networks that extend beyond the root zone, helping the plant access nutrients and water from a larger soil volume.
The most important agronomic role of R. intraradices is improved phosphorus uptake. It can also support the acquisition of nitrogen, zinc, copper, and other micronutrients, while contributing to root-zone stability and improved soil aggregation.
Benefits to Plants
The symbiotic relationship with R. irregularis offers multiple benefits to plants:
Improved nutrient uptake
R. intraradices helps plants access nutrients that may otherwise be poorly available or located beyond the immediate reach of roots. Its hyphal network is especially important for phosphorus uptake, but it can also support micronutrient acquisition and overall nutrient-use efficiency.
Plant resilience
Mycorrhizal colonization can support healthier root systems and improve the plant’s ability to cope with environmental stress. In some systems, AM fungi may also contribute to improved root-zone balance and reduced susceptibility to certain soil-related stresses.
Soil structure support
By creating a dense network of hyphae in the soil, R. irregularis can help improve soil structure. The fungal hyphae and the glomalin they produce can bind soil particles together, leading to the formation of aggregates. This aggregation improves soil porosity, water-holding capacity, and resistance to erosion.
Drought stress support
The extended fungal network can help plants access water from a larger soil volume. This may support better plant performance under dry or variable moisture conditions, particularly when combined with good soil management and balanced nutrition.
Crop growth and yield potential
Improved nutrient and water uptake often supports better crop vigour, biomass development, flowering, and yield potential. Results depend on crop type, soil conditions, fertilizer program, application method, and successful root colonization.
Stronger root establishment
By increasing the effective absorptive area of the root system, R. intraradices supports early root establishment, transplant success, and stronger plant development during critical growth stages.
Agriculture
R. intraradices is widely used in agriculture to promote crop growth, improve yield, and reduce the dependency on chemical fertilizers. The fungus is particularly beneficial for crops that require high amounts of phosphorus, such as corn, wheat, and soybeans.
Environmental remediation
R. intraradices has potential in phytoremediation, a process that uses plants and their associated microorganisms to stabilize or reduce contamination in the environment.
Horticulture
In horticulture, R. intraradices is used to promote the growth of ornamental plants, shrubs, and trees. The fungus helps these plants establish quickly in their planting site and enhances their overall growth and flowering.
Biofertilizer production
R. intraradices is often incorporated into biofertilizers - environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical fertilizers. These biofertilizers can enhance soil fertility, promote plant growth, and reduce environmental pollution.
Applications
R. intraradices finds applications in several industries:
