Arbuskuláris

Arbuskuláris refers to a type of mycorrhizal association, a symbiotic relationship between fungi and plant roots. Specifically, arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) are characterized by the formation of arbuscules within the root cells of the plant. These arbuscules are highly branched structures that the fungal hyphae develop inside the plant's cortical cells. Through these arbuscules, the fungus facilitates the exchange of nutrients, primarily phosphorus and other minerals, from the soil to the plant in return for carbohydrates produced by the plant during photosynthesis. This mutualistic relationship is widespread in terrestrial ecosystems, found in approximately 80% of plant species, including many crops, vegetables, and ornamental plants. The fungi involved in arbuscular mycorrhizae belong to the phylum Glomeromycota. The formation of arbuscules is a key diagnostic feature distinguishing this type of mycorrhiza from others like ectomycorrhizae, where fungal hyphae form a sheath around the root and penetrate between root cells but do not enter them. Arbuscular mycorrhizae play a crucial role in plant health, stress tolerance, and soil structure.