mykorhizzaa

Mycorrhizae, often spelled mycorrhiza in its singular form, refers to a symbiotic association between a fungus and the roots of a plant. The word "mycorrhiza" is derived from Greek words meaning "fungus" and "root." These symbiotic relationships are ubiquitous in terrestrial ecosystems and are essential for the health and survival of most plant species.

In a mycorrhizal association, the fungus colonizes the plant roots, either partially or entirely. The fungus receives carbohydrates produced by the plant through photosynthesis, which it cannot produce itself. In return, the fungus provides the plant with numerous benefits. These include increased absorption of water and mineral nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, from the soil. The fungal hyphae, which are microscopic filaments, extend far into the soil, effectively increasing the surface area available for nutrient uptake by the plant.

There are several types of mycorrhizae, with the most common being ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae. Ectomycorrhizae form a sheath around the root tip, with hyphae extending into the spaces between root cells but not penetrating them. Endomycorrhizae, also known as arbuscular mycorrhizae, penetrate the root cells, forming branched structures called arbuscules where nutrient exchange occurs. Mycorrhizal fungi play a crucial role in plant establishment, growth, and overall ecosystem function, contributing to soil structure and nutrient cycling.