Extraradical Hyphae of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Reduce Cadmium Accumulation in Maize by Altering Root Economic Strategies and Soil Solution Cadmium Speciation

Key Points

• This study investigates how extraradical hyphae of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi influence cadmium levels in maize plants.
• Assessment of cadmium accumulation in maize with and without arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.
• Evaluation of root economic strategies and soil solution cadmium speciation.
• Use of rhizosphere and leachate solutions for measurement.
• Significant reduction of cadmium accumulation in maize due to mycorrhizal fungi presence.
• Altered root economic strategies positively influenced soil properties.
• Improved cadmium immobilization in soil solution observed.

Abstract