AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Mycorrhizae are symbiotic relationships that form between fungi and plants. The fungi colonize the root system of a host plant, providing increased water and nutrient absorption capabilities while the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates formed from photosynthesis.

Detailed explanation-2: -Mycorrhizae, known as root fungi, form symbiotic associations with plant roots. In these associations, the fungi are actually integrated into the physical structure of the root. The fungi colonize the living root tissue during active plant growth.

Detailed explanation-3: -Almost all vascular plants have a relationship with a fungus in their roots that allow them to obtain nutrients from the soil. This relationship is symbiotic, since the mycorrhizal fungi also benefit from it. It is so important that most plant species would not be able survive without it.

Detailed explanation-4: -Mycorrhizal fungi allow plants to draw more nutrients and water from the soil. They also increase plant tolerance to different environmental stresses. Moreover, these fungi play a major role in soil aggregation process and stimulate microbial activity.