Medicinal Plant-Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Networks in the Semi-Arid Landscapes of Marathwada: Challenges, Opportunities and Future Research

Abstract

The semi-arid region of Marathwada, Maharashtra, represents a biologically important yet environmentally fragile ecosystem characterized by low rainfall, recurrent droughts, degraded soils, and increasing anthropogenic disturbances. Despite these constraints, the region harbors a rich diversity of medicinal plant species that support traditional healthcare systems, local livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation. However, habitat degradation, unsustainable harvesting, land-use changes, and climate variability continue to threaten these valuable plant resources. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) establish mutualistic associations with the roots of nearly 80% of terrestrial plant species, significantly improving nutrient acquisition, water-use efficiency, stress tolerance, and resistance to soil-borne pathogens. In medicinal plants, AMF not only enhance plant growth and biomass production but also influence the synthesis of pharmaceutically important secondary metabolites, thereby improving medicinal quality. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the diversity of medicinal plants and AMF in the semi-arid landscapes of Marathwada. It discusses ecological interactions between medicinal plants and AMF, their role in soil health, climate resilience, conservation, and sustainable cultivation, and identifies existing research gaps. Finally, the review highlights future research priorities aimed at integrating AMF-based technologies into biodiversity conservation, medicinal plant cultivation, and ecosystem restoration programs in the region.