Mykorrittoja

Mykorrittoja are symbiotic associations between certain fungi and plant roots. In these partnerships, fungi colonize plant roots and extend the plant’s access to water and nutrients through networks of hyphae, while receiving sugars produced by photosynthesis. Mycorrhizal relations are widespread among land plants and are especially important in forests and nutrient-poor soils.

There are several forms of mycorrhizae, with the two major groups being ectomycorrhizal (EM) and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM). EM fungi form a sheath around the root tip and a Hartig net between root cortical cells, whereas AM fungi penetrate cortical cells and form arbuscules inside them. Other forms include ericoid and orchid mycorrhizae, which have specialized structures and associations with specific plant groups.

Ecologically, mycorrhizae enhance the uptake of phosphorus, nitrogen, and other minerals, improve water relations, and help protect roots from some soil pathogens. They also contribute to soil structure through hyphal networks that stabilize aggregates. In return, the fungi receive carbon compounds from the host plant, creating a mutualistic exchange.

Evolution and distribution: mycorrhizal symbiosis is ancient, likely contributing to the successful colonization of land by plants hundreds of millions of years ago. Today, mycorrhizae are found globally in a wide range of ecosystems, particularly in forests and grasslands, and they form associations with most major plant groups.

Applications and research: mycorrhizal inoculants are used in agriculture and forestry to improve nutrient uptake and reduce fertilizer inputs. The success of inoculation depends on plant and fungal species, soil conditions, and environmental factors. Ongoing research examines how mycorrhizal communities respond to land use, climate change, and soil disturbance.