RESUMO
BACKGROUND: The application of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can increase the growth and concentration of primary and secondary metabolites in several plant species. Cebil (Anadenanthera colubrina), a medicinal plant, benefits from mycorrhizal association, but the influence of the symbiosis on the production of its bioactive compounds is unknown. In this study the effect of mycorrhizal inoculation and phosphorus (P) supply on the production of primary and secondary metabolites in cebil seedlings was determined. RESULTS: The production of proteins and carbohydrates in terms of both concentration and content was enhanced by inoculation with AMF, but this benefit was mitigated at higher levels of P (30 and 50 mg dm(-3) soil). The concentration of phenols, flavonoids and total tannins was favoured by mycorrhizal inoculation even at the highest levels of P (30 and 50 mg dm(-3) soil). CONCLUSION: The production of primary and secondary metabolites in leaves of A. colubrina can be maximised by mycorrhization, with the benefit depending on supplementation of soil phosphate.