Question

Explain the significance of mycorrhizae for plants growing in oligotrophic soil.

Answer 1

Oligotrophic soils are low in nutrients because heavy rainfall leaches them away. Mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots.

1. The plant provides carbohydrates and vitamins to the fungus.
2. The fungus absorbs water, phosphorus, nitrogen and other minerals from the soil and supplies them to the plant.
3. Forest trees with mycorrhizae absorb 2–3 times more potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus, and their growth is stunted if fungi are removed.