The Multifaceted Role of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Mediating Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Carbon Dynamics: Implications for Plant Growth, Development, and Ecosystem Functionality

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form symbiotic relationships with over 80% of terrestrial plants, enhancing nutrient exchange. This review synthesizes research on AM fungi's roles in mediating nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and carbon (C) dynamics and their impacts on plant growth. AM fungi facilitate nutrient acquisition through extensive hyphal networks and interactions with nitrogen‐fixing bacteria, boosting N fixation and transport. They enhance P uptake and maintain C: N P stoichiometry, improving root growth and nutrient absorption in nutrient‐poor soils. AM fungi also mitigate nutrient toxicity and increase plant resilience to abiotic stresses, serving as natural biofertilizers. In sustainable agriculture, they reduce chemical fertilizer use by improving nutrient cycling and soil aggregation, enhancing soil health and crop resilience. Despite these benefits, gaps remain in understanding species‐specific interactions and environmental influences on AM fungi efficacy, necessitating further research. This review provides a comprehensive overview of AM fungi's contributions to nutrient dynamics, offering insights for advancing mycorrhizal research and sustainable farming practices.