ecmycorrhizal

Ectomycorrhizal refers to a type of symbiotic association between a fungus and the roots of a plant. In this relationship, the fungus forms a dense sheath or mantle around the root tip, and its hyphae penetrate the root cortex but do not enter the plant cells. Instead, they form a network called the Hartig net, which facilitates the exchange of nutrients between the fungus and the plant.

This mutualistic relationship is prevalent in forest ecosystems, particularly with trees such as pines, oaks, and birches. The fungus effectively extends the plant's root system, increasing its surface area for absorption of water and essential mineral nutrients, especially phosphorus and nitrogen, from the soil. In return, the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis. Ectomycorrhizal fungi can also protect their host plants from root pathogens and improve their tolerance to environmental stresses like drought and heavy metals. The presence and diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungi are crucial indicators of soil health and forest ecosystem functioning.