Characterization of Endogenous Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Associated with Xanthosomas sagittifolium (L.) Schott (Macabo) in Agroecological Zone 5 of Cameroon

While Xanthosoma sagittifolium is known for its high content of carbohydrates, sugars, vitamins, potassium, calcium, iron and antioxidants and serves as a staple food for many populations in sub-Saharan Africa, its production remains threatened by the effects of climate change, including drought, declining soil fertility, the intensification of plant diseases such as root rot. A strategy focusing on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi therefore appears relevant to promoting this crop. In fact, these microorganisms are known for their ability to enhance plant resilience to environmental stresses, increase crop yields in low-fertility soils and protect plants from pathogen attacks. Meanwhile, the performance of these beneficial microorganisms is influenced by environmental factors, indicating that the application of exotic strains may be ineffective. It is therefore important to explore the diversity of endogenous mycorrhizal fungi adapted to local environmental conditions and specific to the rhizosphere of this crop. In this study, the frequency and intensity of mycorrhization, as well as the species diversity of these microorganisms associated with this plant, were assessed in agroecological zone 5 of Cameroon. Analysis of the results indicates the presence of 11 different species: Sclerocystis sp., Glomus ambisporum, Funneliformis sp., Glomus sp. 1, Acaulospora sp., Scutellospora sp., Racocetra sp., Claroideoglomus sp., Diversispora sp., Paraglomus sp., and Glomus sp. 2. Glomus ambisporum is the most abundant species in the study area, whereas Paraglomus sp. is less abundant. These results therefore provide valuable preliminary information for the formulation of a mycorrhizal biofertilizer suitable for cassava cultivation in agroecological zone 5 of Cameroon.