Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM), a symbiosis between plants and members of
the Glomeromycota, an ancient phylum of fungi, boosts the availability of water and
nutrients to the host plant, such as phosphate and nitrogen. In exchange, the fungus
receives up to 20% of the carbon fixed by the plants. Arbuscules, symbiotic entities
found inside plant root cells, are responsible for nutrient delivery. The formation of
AM is accompanied by a signalling molecule exchange between the symbionts. Plant
roots secrete strigolactones, a new class of plant hormones, which help in host
recognition. In India, chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) is one of the most important
commercial spice crops. After looking over the literature on chilli wilt complex
disease, it appears that it causes a major constraint in production. The major diseases
affecting chilli production are anthracnose, Phytophthora leaf blight, Fusarium wilt,
bacterial wilt, damping-off, root rot, etc. Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) is well known
for its plant growth-promoting efficiency and providing bioprotection against soilborne pathogens (bacteria, fungal and parasitic nematodes). Soil-borne plant pathogens
are difficult to control by conventional fungicidal methods; therefore, an attempt was
made to control the wilt of chilli by eco-friendly management. Increased and efficient
use of mycorrhizal fungi may reduce the use of fertilizer.
Keywords: Capsicum annuum L., Fungicide, Glomeromycota, Symbiosis.
