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Changes in root biomass and arbuscular mycorrhizae in shifting crops of the Venezuelan Amazon

Abstract:

The allocation of biomass to the production of fine roots in terrestrial plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiotic partnerships are important adaptations under conditions of low fertility. In a mosaic of shifting cultivation, comprising two growing areas (conucos) and two 2-4 and 4-6 years deserted areas after being cultivated (fallow), and a little disturbed rain forest area, differences in fine root biomass (diameter <2mm), infective potential of soil and spore density of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) were assessed. Roots and soil samples were collected at random in the first 15cm of depth. There was a significantly higher proportion of fine roots in the mantle root surface (mat) with respect to the mineral soil of the forest. Fine root biomass decreased markedly and the root mat was eliminated with the conversion of forest to conuco; however, within a six year fallow period an incipient root mat formed. AM colonization, number of spores and infective potential of the soil increased significantly in conuco and fallows with respect to the forest. The results show that the adverse effects that fire might have on the AMF were reversed during cultivation, possibly due to the planting of species that are highly susceptible to AM colonization. These trends support the sustainable nature of the piaroa ethnic group shifting cultivation, when it is practiced in its traditional form.