Comparative Effect of VAM Inoculation on Growth, Nodulation and <I>Rhizobium</I> Population of Subabul [Leucaena leucocephala (LAM) De Wit] Grown in Iron Mine Waste Soil

Abstract

Leucaene leucocephala shows poor growth and nodulation capacity in iron mine waste soil of Orissa due to poor nutrient content and toxic effect of heavy metal iron accumulation. Inoculat on of two VAM species e.g. Glomus mosseoe and Glomus fasciculotum to Leucaena plants grown in iron mine waste soil and garden soil induced differential growth responses. Out of two VAM fungi inoculated G. mosseae in general improved growth, nodulation and rhizobial population in the rhizosphere of Leucaena plant while treatment with G. fasciculatum induced negative impact. However G. mosseae inoculation appeared to retard nodulation and rhizobial population in the rhizosphere when grown in pure iron mine waste soil. Treatment of mine waste soil with sand (50%) was seen to improve plant growth under control and VAM treated conditions.