Funneliformis mosseae potentiates defense mechanisms of citrus rootstocks against citrus nematode, Tylenchulus semipenetrans.

The article focuses on the use of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Funneliformis mosseae (Fm) to enhance growth and reduce infection by the citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans in two major citrus rootstocks, sour orange (Citrus aurantium) and Volkamer lemon (Citrus volkameriana). The study demonstrates that Fm inoculation increases shoot and root length and biomass in both nematode-infected and noninfected plants, with the greatest reduction in nematode infection observed when plants were pre-inoculated with Fm. Additionally, Fm primes the expression of defense-related genes phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and β-1,3-glucanase, which are involved in systemic acquired resistance (SAR), thereby enhancing the plants' defensive capacity. These findings suggest that Fm could be an effective component of integrated pest management strategies in citrus cultivation by promoting plant growth and inducing resistance against nematode pathogens without relying on chemical pesticides.