5 Questions
What is a mycorrhiza?
A symbiotic association between a fungus and a plant
How does the fungus benefit from the mycorrhizal association?
Receives organic molecules from the plant
What are the two main types of mycorrhizae mentioned in the text?
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and ectomycorrhizal fungi
What role do mycorrhizae play in soil biology?
They contribute to plant nutrition
In what circumstances may mycorrhizae have a parasitic association with host plants?
In particular species or particular circumstances
Study Notes
Mycorrhizal Association
- A mycorrhiza is a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and the roots of a plant.
- The fungus benefits from the association by receiving carbohydrates produced by photosynthesis from the plant.
- In return, the plant receives water and minerals from the soil, which the fungus absorbs and transports to the plant.
Types of Mycorrhizae
- There are two main types of mycorrhizae: ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae.
- Ectomycorrhizae form a thick, fungal mantle around the plant root, while endomycorrhizae penetrate the root cells.
Role in Soil Biology
- Mycorrhizae play a crucial role in soil biology by facilitating nutrient cycling, improving soil structure, and enhancing plant water uptake.
- They also increase plant diversity, promote soil aggregation, and support beneficial microbial communities.
Parasitic Association
- In certain circumstances, mycorrhizae can have a parasitic association with host plants, particularly when the plant is under stress or the fungus is over-abundant.
- In these cases, the fungus can exploit the plant's resources, leading to reduced plant growth and productivity.
Test your knowledge of mycorrhizae with this informative quiz! Learn about the symbiotic relationship between fungi and plants, and their roles in plant nutrition, soil biology, and soil chemistry.
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