Variations in the diversity of the Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and its symbiosis as affected by different levels of grazing in rangelands

Due to their various roles in the plants’ life, the Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) has been studied from various aspects. In Iran, study on this type of fungi is still at its infancy. Also, the variety of plant species and populations in Iran necessitates a more in-depth analysis compared to other countries in the world. The present study aimed at investigation of the effects of grazing intensity on the diversity and populations of these microorganisms that are symbiotic with the plants and also determining the factors affecting the soil. Three rangelands were considered with three different grazing pressures: no grazing pressure, managed grazing and heavy grazing. Following the sampling of the soil around the rhizosphere of the dominant plant species, the samples were transferred to the laboratory to be analyzed. The results of this study revealed the significant differences in the diversity of AMF species in different sites, and the highest frequency percentage was related to the Septoglomusconstrictum species identified in the heavy grazing region(42.2%).Also, grazing caused changes in the mycorrhizal symbiosis percentage and these factors had a direct correlation, and this could be an evidence of the reduced diversity of AMF, because despite of the existence of spores in the soil, each plant species can only correlate with specific species of AMF. It can be said that appropriate grazing cannot have a negative effect on the population and diversity of AMF, because species diversity indices in a managed grazing region are in a stable state; and, by the proper management of the grazing system and preventing the premature or excessive grazing, its harmful effects can be prevented.