Chapter 20, Problem 16STP

Summary Introduction

To write: The value of mycorrhizae for plants.

Introduction: In the Kingdom Fungi belong some of the largest and oldest species on Earth. There is a honey fungus in eastern Oregon that is so large it's called the "Humongous Fungus." Many of the fungi are heterotrophic eukaryotes. There are over 100,000 species of fungi.

Explanation of Solution

Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic relationship between a specialized fungus and plant roots. Plants with Mycorrhizae are healthier and more vigorous than similar plants lacking Mycorrhizae. Other species such as orchids, cannot survive without mutualistic partners. Orchid seeds will not germinate unless they are infected by a fungal partner or provided with the fungal carbohydrate trehalose.

Conclusion

The fungus absorbs and concentrates various minerals for the plant. The hyphae of the fungus also increase the plant’s root surface area for water and mineral absorption.