What does the published scientific research say about Glomus deserticola?

Eight PubMed records index Glomus deserticola—also known as Septoglomus deserticola—an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus studied across multiple host species and abiotic stress conditions. Drought tolerance is the most developed thread in the peer-reviewed literature on this organism.

In a direct comparison of seven Glomus species inoculated into lettuce (Lactuca sativa), published research ranked G. deserticola first for drought tolerance, reporting only a 9% growth reduction under water deficit and the highest mycorrhizal colonization rate of the group. A separate rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) study reported improvements in root hydraulic conductivity, osmotic adjustment, stomatal conductance, and chlorophyll content in inoculated plants under water stress.

Research on Glomus deserticola and salinity documents improved growth, water use efficiency, and K/P/Ca balance in sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) under saline conditions. An Eucalyptus globulus study reported that G. deserticola inoculation combined with sewage sludge amendment stimulated shoot growth and increased tissue concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and Fe.

Other peer-reviewed studies place G. deserticola in chromium phytoremediation research—inoculated mesquite (Prosopis juliflora-velutina) accumulated more Cr in roots under Cr(VI) exposure—and in tomato drought-metabolite work where combining G. deserticola with drought priming enhanced proline, soluble sugars, and flavonoids. Apple rootstock AMF compatibility trials also evaluated Septoglomus deserticola alongside three other species.