AM Fungus
Funneliformis mosseae
📸
Image placeholder
Add your own image here
Edibility inedible
Phylum Glomeromycota
Family Glomeraceae
Conservation Not applicable - common and beneficial
Complete Taxonomy
Kingdom: Fungi
Phylum: Glomeromycota
Class: Glomeromycetes
Order: Glomerales
Family: Glomeraceae
Genus: Funneliformis
Species: F. mosseae
Description
Funneliformis mosseae is a widespread arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus commercially important in agriculture. Like other AM fungi, it forms mutualistic partnerships with plant roots, greatly enhancing phosphorus and micronutrient uptake. This species is produced commercially as biofertilizer for crops, vegetables, and ornamental plants, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
Physical Characteristics
Cap Shape: Microscopic structures; extensive hyphal networks
Cap Color: Spores yellow-brown to brown
Size: Spores 100-200 micrometers; extensive hyphal networks
Gill Attachment: N/A
Spore Print: N/A
Stipe: Coenocytic hyphae forming arbuscules
Habitat: Plant roots and rhizosphere
Fruiting Season: Continuous with living hosts
Distribution
Worldwide
Habitat
Forms mycorrhizae with diverse plants in agricultural, grassland, and natural ecosystems.
Ecological Role
Mutualistic symbiont enhancing plant nutrition, particularly phosphorus. Improves plant stress tolerance and disease resistance.
Fascinating Facts
- Obligate symbiont requiring living plant
- Commercially produced biofertilizer
- Reduces need for chemical fertilizers
- Improves crop yields and plant health
- Ancient symbiosis over 400 million years old