Ectomykorrhizen

Ectomycorrhizae are a type of symbiotic association between the roots of certain plants, primarily trees, and fungi. The fungal hyphae form a dense sheath, known as a mantle, around the root tips. These hyphae also penetrate the root cortex, forming a network called the Hartig net, which facilitates the exchange of nutrients between the fungus and the plant. Unlike endomycorrhizae, the fungal hyphae in ectomycorrhizae do not typically penetrate the plant cells themselves. This association is most common in woody plants such as oaks, pines, and birches. The fungus benefits from sugars produced by the plant through photosynthesis. In return, the plant gains access to essential nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, which the fungal hyphae can efficiently absorb from the soil and transport to the plant's roots. Ectomycorrhizal fungi can also help improve a plant's drought tolerance and resistance to root pathogens. The formation of ectomycorrhizae is a crucial ecological interaction, influencing forest ecosystem health and plant community structure.