Chapter 23.4, Problem 2MQ

Summary Introduction

Mycorrhizae are mutualistic symbiotic association between the fungi and plant roots. In this association, fungus transfers inorganic nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous from the soil to the plant and the plant transfers carbohydrates to the fungus. A mycorrhiza is endomycorrhizae type in which the fungal hyphae is penetrated directly into root hairs, epidermal cells, and into cortical cells. It is constituted mostly of arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM). The arbuscular mycorrhizae generate plant growth hormones that helps to modify the roots and encourages mycorrhizae formation. It colonizes the plant root region and allows the plant to grow in nutrient poor soils. The colonization of fungal mycelium around the plant roots provide a greater nutrient absorption and enhanced growth.