Summary of Enhancement of alkalinity tolerance in two cucumber genotypes inoculated with an arbuscular mycorrhizal biofertilizer containing Glomus intraradices
Enhancement of Alkalinity Tolerance in Cucumber through Mycorrhizal Inoculation
The enhancement of alkalinity tolerance in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) was studied using arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) biofertilizer. This biofertilizer contained clays as granular carriers, leek root pieces, and Glomus intraradices spores. The study aimed to determine if AM inoculation could improve plant performance under alkaline stress and to analyze the physiological and agronomical changes induced by AM.
Greenhouse Experiment for Alkalinity Stress
A controlled greenhouse experiment tested two cucumber genotypes: the hybrid “Ekron” and the open-pollinated variety “Marketmore.” Plants were either inoculated or noninoculated with AM biofertilizer and supplied with nutrient solutions at pH 6.0 or 8.1. The high pH solution included 10 mM NaHCO3 and 0.5 g l−1 CaCO3 to simulate alkaline conditions.
Growth, Yield, and Nutritional Improvements
The enhancement of alkalinity tolerance was evident in inoculated plants, especially in the Ekron genotype. Root colonization was higher in Marketmore (21.8%) than in Ekron (12.7%), but Ekron showed higher total and marketable yield (189% and 213% increase, respectively) and total biomass (77% increase). AM inoculation improved nutritional status, increasing N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, and B concentrations.
Physiological Responses under Alkaline Conditions
High NaHCO3 levels reduced yield, growth, net photosynthesis (ACO2), and leaf nutrient concentration, while increasing electrolyte leakage. Inoculated plants maintained higher ACO2 and better nutrient balance, demonstrating the role of AM in the enhancement of alkalinity tolerance.
Conclusion
AM biofertilization effectively supports cucumbers under bicarbonate stress by improving growth, yield, and mineral nutrition. This method provides a practical strategy for the enhancement of alkalinity tolerance in sensitive genotypes.
Publication: Biology and Fertility of Soils
