Influence of phenamiphos on the vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in Leucaena leucocephala

Summary

Concentrations of phenamiphos ranging from 0 to 40 μrg/g soil were established in a typical Oxisol (Tropeptic Eutrustox), inoculated or uninoculated with Glomus aggregatum. The effect of the nematicide on the development of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) symbiosis was evaluated in the greenhouse using Leucaena leucocephala as an indicator host plant. Treatment of soil with phenamiphos did not have a significant influence on the development of mycorrhizal activity measured in terms of subleaflet phosphorus concentrations. Similarly, the nematicide did not have an adverse effect on the level of mycorrhizal colonization or on the P content of shoots, as determined at the time of harvest. However, shoot dry weight was adversely influenced by phenamiphos when the chemical was applied to the uninoculated soil at 20 μg/g soil or higher, and when it was applied to the inoculated soil at 40 μg/g soil. It is concluded that phenamiphos is not likely to influence the growth of Leucaena or its symbiotic association with VAM fungi if the concentrations applied do not exceed levels known to suppress nematodes.