EXPLORATION OF RHIZOSPHERE FUNGAL COMMUNITIES IN BANANA CULTIVATIONS OF AKRANI MAHAL, NANDURBAR DISTRICT

Abstract

This research focuses on isolating and identifying soil fungi associated with banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) fields in the Akrani Mahal (Dhadgaon) region of Nandurbar District, Maharashtra. The study utilized the serial dilution method along with Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium to culture and examines fungal species present in the rhizosphere of banana plants. Morphological characteristics were analyzed to identify the fungi, resulting in the identification of fourteen distinct species. These species primarily belonged to the Deuteromycotina, Zygomycotina, and Ascomycotina groups, which showed consistent presence throughout the study.

Among the isolated fungi, the most prevalent genera were Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Trichoderma, Curvularia, and Penicillium. The high occurrence of these genera suggests their potential role in nutrient cycling, soil health, and plant growth promotion, as well as implications for disease suppression and resistance in banana cultivation. This study provides insights into the fungal diversity within banana crop soils, highlighting their possible impact on agricultural sustainability. The findings contribute to a better understanding of how soil fungi interact with banana plants, offering valuable knowledge for enhancing crop management and productivity through informed fungal utilization strategies.Keywords: