As a summary of AM fungus research in the past 10 years, we discuss the community structure concept, characteristics and functions of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, as well as the effects of host plants, soil conditions, other soil microorganism, and agricultural practices on AM fungal community structure, and the possible regulating strategies. Methods used to investigate AM fungal community structure are also introduced. Research trends and future prospects in this field are also discussed in this review.