Understanding Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Colonization in Walnut Plantations: The Contribution of Cover Crops and Soil Microbial Communities

Soil microorganisms play a central role in biological soil functioning. One of the beneficial microbiota that has symbiotic association with most plants is arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Nevertheless, little known about impact cover crops—widely used conservation agriculture or organic farming—on native fungi. This study was conducted Southern France, 20-year-old walnut orchards, where faba bean (Vicia Roth) intercropped. To find whether AM fungal community associated trees influenced by crops and microbial communities, analyses physicochemical microbiological indicators were carried out roots samples collected from four modalities (walnut conventional farming without crops, crops). Our results showed presence mainly abundance activities plots. In contrast, stimulated colonization plots, reaching 35% 54% for arbuscule intensity, respectively. ergosterol mineral nitrogen contents correlated colonization, while only acid phosphatase activity positively The use great played enhancement trees’ colonization. Identification functional traits sensitive to required inform decisions specific agricultural practices.