Symbiotic interactions between a newly identified native mycorrhizal fungi complex and the endemic tree <i>Argania spinosa</i> mediate growth, photosynthesis, and enzymatic responses under drought stress conditions

Water deficit or drought is the most important abiotic stress limiting plant growth performance and community development; this typical in Mediterranean area where plants are often severely permanently water limited. Such case of argan tree (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels), one species affected by desertification global warming. To advance knowledge on how can withstand stress, inoculation with a native complex arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), composed mainly genus Glomus, was studied connection set physiological parameters. Under controlled conditions, inoculated non-inoculated seedlings were grown for 3 months under three regimens: 25%, 50%, 75% relative to field capacity used soil substrate. The results showed that had different abilities develop various applied limitations. AMF stimulated mineral nutrition imposed levels deficiency. Relative content (RWC) leaves, potential, stomatal conductance leaves general improvement compared ones. Soluble sugar proline contents significantly increased water-limiting conditions (25%). Similarly, oxidative enzyme (catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase) activity drought-stressed seedlings. Non-inoculated highest accumulation these enzymes. Moreover, symbiosis establishment positively correlated terms growth, nutrition, soluble contents, enzymes activities. main from current study suggest improve ability A. tolerate enhancing transport high RWC potential leaves. Finally, alleviation destructive effects reactive oxygen modulated enzymatic scavenging activity. Hence, use technical process production highly recommended ecofriendly restoration strategies, aim producing quality capable tolerating stress.