Simon Marweyi
Dec 21, 2023
Describe mycorrhizal fungi plant associations?
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Dec 21, 2023
Mycorrhizal fungi plant associations refer to the mutually beneficial relationship between certain fungi and plant roots. These associations are known as mycorrhizae, and they are widespread in nature, occurring in approximately 90% of all plant species.
Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plants, where they colonize the roots and establish a network of fungal hyphae (thread-like structures) that extend into the surrounding soil. This network greatly increases the surface area available for nutrient and water absorption, enhancing the plant's ability to acquire essential resources.
There are two main types of mycorrhizal associations: ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae.
1. Ectomycorrhizae: These associations are commonly found in trees, such as conifers and many hardwoods. In ectomycorrhizae, the fungal hyphae form a dense sheath around the root tips, known as the mantle, and also penetrate into the spaces between root cells, forming structures called Hartig net. This association does not penetrate the root cells, but instead forms a sheath around them. Ectomycorrhizal fungi are typically basidiomycetes or ascomycetes and are often visible as fruiting bodies (mushrooms) above the ground.
2. Endomycorrhizae: This type of association is found in the majority of plant species, including most agricultural crops. Endomycorrhizae, also known as arbuscular mycorrhizae, involve the penetration of fungal hyphae into the root cells themselves. The hyphae form intricate structures called arbuscules within the root cells, which greatly increase nutrient exchange between the fungus and the plant. Endomycorrhizal fungi belong to the phylum Glomeromycota and are not visible above the ground as mushrooms.
Both types of mycorrhizal associations provide numerous benefits to the plant. The fungi help the plant acquire nutrients, particularly phosphorus, which can be limited in soil. They also enhance the plant's ability to absorb water, improve resistance to diseases and pests, and promote overall plant growth and development. In return, the plant provides the fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis.
Overall, mycorrhizal fungi plant associations play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning, nutrient cycling, and plant productivity, making them an essential component of many terrestrial ecosystems.
Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plants, where they colonize the roots and establish a network of fungal hyphae (thread-like structures) that extend into the surrounding soil. This network greatly increases the surface area available for nutrient and water absorption, enhancing the plant's ability to acquire essential resources.
There are two main types of mycorrhizal associations: ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae.
1. Ectomycorrhizae: These associations are commonly found in trees, such as conifers and many hardwoods. In ectomycorrhizae, the fungal hyphae form a dense sheath around the root tips, known as the mantle, and also penetrate into the spaces between root cells, forming structures called Hartig net. This association does not penetrate the root cells, but instead forms a sheath around them. Ectomycorrhizal fungi are typically basidiomycetes or ascomycetes and are often visible as fruiting bodies (mushrooms) above the ground.
2. Endomycorrhizae: This type of association is found in the majority of plant species, including most agricultural crops. Endomycorrhizae, also known as arbuscular mycorrhizae, involve the penetration of fungal hyphae into the root cells themselves. The hyphae form intricate structures called arbuscules within the root cells, which greatly increase nutrient exchange between the fungus and the plant. Endomycorrhizal fungi belong to the phylum Glomeromycota and are not visible above the ground as mushrooms.
Both types of mycorrhizal associations provide numerous benefits to the plant. The fungi help the plant acquire nutrients, particularly phosphorus, which can be limited in soil. They also enhance the plant's ability to absorb water, improve resistance to diseases and pests, and promote overall plant growth and development. In return, the plant provides the fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis.
Overall, mycorrhizal fungi plant associations play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning, nutrient cycling, and plant productivity, making them an essential component of many terrestrial ecosystems.
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