Pantnagar Journal of Research

Abstract

Glomalin-related soil proteins (GRSPs), produced exclusively by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), are key contributors to soil aggregation, carbon sequestration, and rhizosphere stability. The present study investigated species-specific variation in Total Glomalin-related soil protein (TGRSP) and easily extractable glomalin-related soil protein (EE-GRSP) in the rhizosphere soils of ten bamboo species and examined their association with fungal abundance, AMF colonisation, biochemical characteristics, and plant growth responses. Both TGRSP and EE-GRSP contents were significantly higher in the rhizosphere of all bamboo species compared to bulk soil, with pronounced interspecific differences; Dendrocalamus asper exhibited the highest EE-GRSP, while Bambusa nutans showed the lowest EE-GRSP content. Fungal population analysis revealed CFU values within ecologically functional ranges, and microscopic examination confirmed the presence of AMF hyphae, vesicles, and spores, indicating active mycorrhizal colonisation. UV–visible spectrophotometric analysis of glomalin extracts showed broad absorption features with peaks around 230 and 320 nm, suggesting a structurally complex, proteinaceous macromolecule containing aromatic and amine functionalities rather than simple phenolic compounds. Seed germination bioassays demonstrated a clear dose-dependent response, with half-strength glomalin showing minimal inhibition, whereas full-strength glomalin and aromatic amines markedly suppressed germination. Overall, the results highlight the strong influence of bamboo species on AMF-mediated glomalin production and demonstrate the ecological significance of GRSPs in rhizosphere functioning, soil stability, and plant–soil interactions, with implications for sustainable soil management and bamboo-based agroecosystems.