Question

Write a short note on mycorrhiza.

Answer 1

Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic association between fungal hyphae and the roots of higher plants. The fungus obtains food from the plant roots and, in return, supplies mineral nutrients to the plant, enhancing nutrient absorption, especially in poor soils.

There are two main types:

1. Ectomycorrhiza: Fungal hyphae form a sheath around the root surface and grow between root cells but do not enter them. Common in forest trees like pine and oak. They help absorb minerals and protect roots from pathogens.
2. Endomycorrhiza: Fungal hyphae penetrate root cells. Roots appear short, branched, and swollen with fewer root hairs. Many orchids and crops like coffee have this type. Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi are a special group that improves nutrient uptake, drought resistance, and pathogen protection.

Mycorrhizae are important for plant growth, nutrient uptake, and soil health and are widely used in agriculture and forestry to improve plant establishment and productivity.