glomeromyceten

Glomeromyceten are a phylum of fungi that form symbiotic relationships with the roots of most land plants, playing a crucial role in plant nutrition and soil health. These fungi belong to the order Glomeromycota, which was previously classified within the Zygomycota but was later recognized as a distinct lineage due to genetic differences. Their most notable feature is the formation of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) associations with plant roots, where they exchange nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen for carbohydrates produced by the host plant.

Glomeromyceten are obligate biotrophs, meaning they rely entirely on living plant cells for survival and cannot be grown independently in laboratory cultures. This dependency has made their study challenging, but advancements in molecular techniques have provided deeper insights into their biology. The phylum contains around 200 species distributed across six families, with the most common genera being *Gigaspora*, *Glomus*, and *Acaulospora*. These fungi are found globally, thriving in diverse ecosystems from forests to agricultural fields.

The ecological significance of Glomeromyceten lies in their ability to enhance plant growth, improve soil structure, and promote nutrient cycling. They also contribute to the resilience of plant communities by facilitating stress tolerance, such as resistance to drought or heavy metal contamination. While historically understudied, their importance in sustainable agriculture and ecosystem stability has led to increased research interest in recent decades. Conservation efforts often emphasize preserving their natural habitats, as declines in fungal diversity can negatively impact plant health and biodiversity.