Mycorrhizal Fungi in Agriculture

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary role of orchid mycorrhizal fungi in relation to orchids?

  • They aid in seed germination and early development. (correct)
  • They provide structural support to orchid roots.
  • They protect orchids from herbivores.
  • They assist in photosynthesis.

Which of the following accurately describes pelotons?

  • Root hair extensions that enhance water absorption.
  • A type of nutrient capsule that orchids produce.
  • Coiled hyphal structures found within root cells of orchids. (correct)
  • Fungal structures that can form a sheath around plant roots.

What type of mycorrhizae are associated with the Ericaceae family?

  • Endomycorrhizae
  • Arbutoid mycorrhizae (correct)
  • Ectomycorrhizae
  • Orchid mycorrhizae

How do mycorrhizae contribute to sustainable agriculture?

<p>By reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which example illustrates the use of mycorrhizal inoculants in horticulture?

<p>Applying to nursery-grown roses to improve growth. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of ectomycorrhizal fungi in forestry?

<p>They enhance the establishment and growth of forest trees. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What kind of structure do arbutoid mycorrhizae form around root tips?

<p>A dense hyphal sheath. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which plant is an example of one that forms arbutoid mycorrhizal associations?

<p>Arbutus menziesii (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Orchid Mycorrhizae

Fungi that form associations with orchid roots, essential for seed germination and growth.

Pelotons

Coiled hyphal structures formed within the root cells of orchids during mycorrhizae association.

Rhizoctonia spp.

Common fungi that associate with orchids, supplying essential nutrients for growth.

Ceratobasidium cornigerum

Another fungus that forms beneficial mycorrhizal relationships with orchids.

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Arbutoid Mycorrhizae

Mycorrhizae associated specifically with families like Ericaceae, forming a dense hyphal sheath.

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Hyphal Sheath

A dense fungal sheath that surrounds the root tips in arbutoid mycorrhizae.

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Sustainable Agriculture

Use of mycorrhizae to reduce chemical fertilizers and promote natural growth systems.

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Mycorrhizal inoculants in Horticulture

Substances applied to enhance growth and disease resistance in ornamental plants.

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Study Notes

Orchid Mycorrhizae

  • Orchid mycorrhizal fungi are crucial for orchid seed germination and early growth, as orchid seeds lack sufficient nutrients.
  • These fungi form coiled hyphal structures (pelotons) inside orchid root cells.
  • The Orchidaceae family (orchids) are the host plants.
  • Rhizoctonia spp. and Ceratobasidium cornigerum are examples of fungi that form these associations, supplying essential nutrients.

Arbutoid Mycorrhizae

  • Similar to ectomycorrhizae, but specific to plant families like Ericaceae.
  • Form a dense hyphal sheath around roots and penetrate root cells.
  • Arbutus and Arctostaphylos plants are hosts.
  • Arbutus menziesii (Pacific madrone) forms arbutoid associations, improving nutrient uptake and soil stability.
  • Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry) is another example.

Applications in Agriculture

Sustainable Agriculture

  • Mycorrhizae reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides.
  • Inoculating maize with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi reduces phosphorus fertilizer needs, improving sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Horticulture

  • Mycorrhizal inoculants enhance ornamental plant growth and health.
  • Applied to nursery-grown plants like roses to improve establishment, growth, and resistance to soil diseases.

Forestry

  • Mycorrhizae are vital for forest tree establishment and growth.
  • Used in reforestation projects to improve seedling survival and growth in degraded areas, aiding forest regeneration and ecosystem recovery.

Crop Production

  • Mycorrhizal fungi enhance crop growth and yield in maize, wheat, rice, and legumes.
  • Inoculating wheat with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi improves nutrient intake and grain yield.

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