Question

Mention the kind of interaction mycorrhizae exhibit. How is Glomus in mycorrhizal association beneficial to the plants?

Answer 1

Mycorrhizae show a symbiotic (mutualistic) relationship, in which both the fungus and the plant benefit from the association.

Glomus, a mycorrhizal fungus, is beneficial to plants because

• It helps in better absorption of phosphorus and other minerals from the soil.
• It also increases the plant’s tolerance to drought and salinity conditions.
• It provides protection against root-borne pathogens, thereby improving overall plant growth and health.