Mycorrhizas. The new green revolution

Mycorrhizas are a symbiosis formed by soil-borne fungi and plant roots –
together they work wonders in horticulture. The fungi enhance plant nutrient
and water uptake from the soil, and even help plants adapt to different
environmental stresses. In exchange, the plants supply mycorrhizal fungi with
carbon fixed using energy from the sun. AIn recent years, numerous scientific
studies have clearly highlighted the fundamental role that mycorrhizal fungi
play in the growth and survival of the majority of plant species, whether they
are in natural ecosystems or in those managed by man. However, in spite of the
undeniable evidence provided by repeated scientific studies, the majority of
horticulturalists, agriculturalists, sylviculturalists and environmentalists,
still have only a limited understanding of the importance of mycorrhizas. This
major knowledge gap must be bridged before mycorrhizal fungi can fully realise
their potential to enhance sustainable plant production. It was with this in
mind that the authors – all World leaders in the field of mycorrhizal research
– set about preparing this book. Their aim was to help everyone understand the
biology of mycorrhizal fungi and the fascinating mycorrhizas that they form
with plant roots. This book clearly shows how we can benefit from using
mycorrhizal fungi in diverse aspect of plant production, while respecting the
delicate balance of nature.