mikorrhiza

Mycorrhiza, also spelled mycorrhiza, is a symbiotic association between the roots of a vascular plant and fungi of the phylum Glomeromycota, Ascomycota, or Basidiomycota. This mutualistic relationship is crucial for the health and growth of both the plant and the fungus. The fungi help the plant absorb water and nutrients, particularly phosphorus, from the soil, while the plant provides the fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis. This exchange is vital for the survival and growth of both organisms.

Mycorrhizal associations are widespread and can be found in various ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural lands. They play a significant role in nutrient cycling and soil health. The fungi involved in mycorrhizal associations can be either arbuscular (formed by Glomeromycota) or ectomycorrhizal (formed by Ascomycota or Basidiomycota). Arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) form structures called arbuscules within the plant's root cells, while ectomycorrhizae (EM) form a sheath around the root, creating a mutually beneficial interface.

The benefits of mycorrhizal associations extend beyond nutrient uptake. They can enhance the plant's resistance to pathogens, improve water uptake, and even influence plant growth and development. In agriculture, mycorrhizal fungi are often used as biofertilizers to improve soil fertility and crop yields. The study of mycorrhizal associations is an active area of research in ecology, plant biology, and soil science, as it sheds light on the complex interactions between plants and their microbial partners.