The effect of biochar on mycorrhizal fungi mediated nutrient uptake by coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) seedlings grown on a Sandy Regosol

Abstract Biochar amendment of soil may ameliorate inherently infertile soils, such as in the typical coconut ( Cocos nucifera L.) growth areas along tropical coasts, where, moreover, temporary moisture stress commonly occurs. We conducted a pot experiment to evaluate effects biochar (1% w/w) produced from Gliricidia sepium stems (BC-Gly) and rice husks (BC-RiH) on seedlings N P uptake mediated by mycorrhizae under wet or dry conditions Sandy Regosol. The pots were divided into root hyphal zones nylon mesh, where 15 labelled nutrients only provided zone. Under conditions, application did not affect plant growth, while BC-Gly increased similar that conditions. acidic pH neutral level, microbial community shifted towards higher fungal abundance. accumulated (Pacc) roots was with BC-RiH respectively. Pacc weakly correlated abundance arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) With showed lower derived fertilizer. conclude has no impact crop stimulates uptake, probably through liming induced availability but also possibly some enhancement AMF growth. shift fungal-oriented reduced fertilizer suggested acted an additional source. Graphical