Farm and soil fertility management-induced shifts in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) population density and diversity under wheat and Teff croplands

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) serve as vital elements of agricultural ecosystems, contributing significantly to enhanced crop yields and environmental stress tolerance. This research aimed to assess how various soil fertility management strategies changed the AMF community composition within teff and wheat croplands. Soil samples were obtained through random selection from specific districts, and spores recovered by employing the wet sieving and decantation technique. The results indicated that average spore density varied significantly (p < 0.05) across different sampling locations, districts, crop types, and between sampling and control groups. The Debre Elias district yielded the highest average AMF population, reaching 56.67 spores 100 g ^− 1 dry soil. A similar peak in spore density was observed specifically in wheat-cultivated lands. Taxonomic analysis revealed 38 distinct AMF species/morphotypes categorized into three AMF genera: Acaulospora, Glomus , and Pacispora . Of these, Acaulospora was identified as the most prevalent genus, with Acaulospora scrobiculata and Acaulospora myriocarpa being the most frequently occurring species. These results underscore the profound impact of land management and soil fertility practices on AMF populations. Such dynamics are critical for optimizing nutrient cycling, strengthening climate resilience, and fostering long-term agricultural sustainability.