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Mycorrhizal fungi colonization and fertilizer leaching
Background

Research on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) has traditionally focused on plant and soil health. However, an emerging area of research is centered around how robust colonization of roots and soil can influence fertilizer nutrient use, resulting in decreased nutrient movement and leaching out of the soil profile. If root and soil colonization not only positively affect plant and soil health, but also impede movement of nitrates through the soil profile, the value of mycorrhizal networks in cropland plants and soils will be additionally justified. 

 

It is hypothesized that colonized roots and soil affect ion movement because mycorrhizal hyphae act to store and transport nitrogen to plant roots, effectively tying up nutrients so they are not available to movement in soil water. An increased reliance on plant and soil ecosystem services would limit the use of non-renewable agricultural inputs, making agricultural production more sustainable.

What we're looking for

We are seeking novel technologies, methods, and approaches to advance the science of detecting and quantifying the movement of nitrates through soil, comparing AMF colonized versus non-colonized crops. Potential study sites can include field, greenhouse, and/or laboratory.

Solutions of interest include:
  • Quantification of AMF colonization’s effect on nitrate leaching
  • Influence of conservation tillage practices on nitrate leaching comparing well-colonized to non-colonized crops
  • Modelling long-term impact of root colonization on nitrate leaching
  • Determine possible mitigation offered by AMF colonization on water quality and watershed management
  • Innovative techniques, including remote sensing, for sampling and quantifying nitrate movement in soils
  • Innovative delivery systems to stabilize or enhance performance of AMF and other biologicals
  • Technologies that work in tandem with the soil biome to reduce input loss and enhance biological accessibility
What we can offer you
Benefits:
Sponsored Research
Funding up to $100,000 for 6-12 month projects with potential for follow-on funding. Specific funding level is commensurate upon scope of proposal.
Expertise
Work with Valent BioSciences / Valent U.S.A. R&D teams that have a successful track record in bringing new technologies to market. We are equipped with technical resources such as field research stations, greenhouses, growth chambers, and advanced laboratory facilities and personnel with expertise in biology, chemistry, formulations, microbiology, and fermentation.
Who we are

As subsidiaries of Sumitomo Chemical Co., Valent U.S.A., Valent BioSciences, and Pace International are global leaders in the development and commercialization of products using biorational, botanical, and traditional chemistries.

These products protect agricultural crops, enhance crop yields, improve postharvest quality, beautify the environment, reduce food waste and safeguard public health. Our technical expertise, state-of-the-art facilities and decades of agricultural industry experience help foster a culture of innovation and sustainability.

 Learn more
Reviewers
BL
Brian Lin
Technological Innovations
WS
Warren Shafer
Vice President, Global R&D
MM
Mark Mason
Sr Manager Business Development
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