Abstract

Dalbergia latifolia (Indian Rosewood) faces growth limitations due to nutrient deficiencies. This study explores the effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on its growth over 12 months. AM fungi, particularly Glomus mosseae, significantly enhanced plant growth, with G. mosseae producing the tallest plants (112 cm) after 12 months. G. leptotichum resulted in the longest leaves (6.73 cm), and G. fasciculatum produced the widest leaves (5.1 mm). Shoot elongation was highest at 3 months in G. fasciculatum (16.33 cm) and at 12 months in G. mosseae (76 cm). Root growth was most pronounced in G. fasciculatum and G. leptotichum, improving nutrient and water uptake. Chlorophyll content peaked at 9 months in G. mosseae (60.33 SPAD) and remained high at 12 months (57 SPAD). AM fungal colonization reached 35%, with G. fasciculatum showing the highest rate. These findings highlight AM fungi’s potential to enhance the growth and productivity of D. latifolia for sustainable forestry.

Keywords: Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Dalbergia latifolia, Growth enhancement, Glomus mosseae, Root nodulation, Sustainable forestry