Mycorrhiza: Structure, Types, and Role in Plant Growth
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About This Presentation
The term mycorrhiza comes from the Greek words mykes (fungus) and rhiza (root), literally meaning “fungus root.” Mycorrhiza refers to the typically symbiotic association between a fungus and the roots of a plant. These fungi either live inside the root tissues or on the root surface,forming a un...
Slide Content
August 15, 2025
Mycorrhiza: Structure, Types, and Role in Plant Growth
learnmicrobiology.com/mycorrhiza-structure-types-and-role-in-plant-growth/
Introduction
The term mycorrhiza comes from the Greek words mykes (fungus) and rhiza (root),
literally meaning “fungus root.”
Mycorrhiza refers to the typically symbiotic association between a fungus and the
roots of a plant. These fungi either live inside the root tissues or on the root surface,
forming a unique biological partnership.
In a healthy mycorrhizal association, the fungus aids the plant in absorbing water
and essential nutrients—particularly phosphorus and nitrogen—while the plant
supplies the fungus with carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis.
This mutually beneficial relationship plays a vital role in plant physiology, nutrient
cycling, soil health, and ecosystem stability.
However, the relationship is not always perfectly mutualistic. In certain cases, the
fungus may slightly harm the plant, or in rare instances, the plant may parasitize the
fungus.
It’s important to note that not all plants form mycorrhizal associations. In
nutrient-rich soils, plants may grow well without fungal partners, and mycorrhizal
fungi may not thrive under such conditions.
Types of Mycorrhiza
Mycorrhizae are generally classified based on the location of fungal colonization in plant
roots. The two main categories are:
1. Ectomycorrhizae
2. Endomycorrhizae
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Mycorrhiza: Structure, Types, and Role in Plant Growth
learnmicrobiology.com/mycorrhiza-structure-types-and-role-in-plant-growth/
Introduction
The term mycorrhiza comes from the Greek words mykes (fungus) and rhiza (root),
literally meaning “fungus root.”
Mycorrhiza refers to the typically symbiotic association between a fungus and the
roots of a plant. These fungi either live inside the root tissues or on the root surface,
forming a unique biological partnership.
In a healthy mycorrhizal association, the fungus aids the plant in absorbing water
and essential nutrients—particularly phosphorus and nitrogen—while the plant
supplies the fungus with carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis.
This mutually beneficial relationship plays a vital role in plant physiology, nutrient
cycling, soil health, and ecosystem stability.
However, the relationship is not always perfectly mutualistic. In certain cases, the
fungus may slightly harm the plant, or in rare instances, the plant may parasitize the
fungus.
It’s important to note that not all plants form mycorrhizal associations. In
nutrient-rich soils, plants may grow well without fungal partners, and mycorrhizal
fungi may not thrive under such conditions.
Types of Mycorrhiza
Mycorrhizae are generally classified based on the location of fungal colonization in plant
roots. The two main categories are:
1. Ectomycorrhizae
2. Endomycorrhizae
1/28
1. Ectomycorrhizae
Ectomycorrhizae form a thick fungal sheath (mantle) around the root surface without
penetrating plant cells. A specialized network of fungal hyphae, called the Hartig Net,
extends between root cortical cells to facilitate nutrient exchange.
Common Host Plants: Woody species such as birch (Betula), beech (Fagus),
willow (Salix), pine (Pinus), oak (Quercus), spruce (Picea), and fir (Abies).
Occurrence: Found in 5–10% of terrestrial plants, especially in forests.
Function: Extends the root’s reach into the soil, improving water and mineral
uptake, especially in nutrient-poor conditions.
2/28
Ectomycorrhizae form a thick fungal sheath (mantle) around the root surface without
penetrating plant cells. A specialized network of fungal hyphae, called the Hartig Net,
extends between root cortical cells to facilitate nutrient exchange.
Common Host Plants: Woody species such as birch (Betula), beech (Fagus),
willow (Salix), pine (Pinus), oak (Quercus), spruce (Picea), and fir (Abies).
Occurrence: Found in 5–10% of terrestrial plants, especially in forests.
Function: Extends the root’s reach into the soil, improving water and mineral
uptake, especially in nutrient-poor conditions.
2/28
2. Endomycorrhizae
Endomycorrhizae, on the other hand, are present in more than 80% of currently
living plant species, including greenhouse and agricultural plants like the majority of
fruits, flowers, grasses, and vegetables.
In endomycorrhizal interactions, the fungus penetrates the cortical cells and creates
arbuscules and vesicles. To put it another way, endomycorrhiza have an exchange
mechanism inside the root, and the hyphae of the fungus extend beyond the root.
Compared to the ectomycorrhizal interaction, it is a more intrusive one.
Types of Endomycorrhiza
The particular kinds of endomycorrhiza are further categorized as follows:
Orchidaceous Mycorrhizae
Arbuscular Mycorrhizae
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Endomycorrhizae, on the other hand, are present in more than 80% of currently
living plant species, including greenhouse and agricultural plants like the majority of
fruits, flowers, grasses, and vegetables.
In endomycorrhizal interactions, the fungus penetrates the cortical cells and creates
arbuscules and vesicles. To put it another way, endomycorrhiza have an exchange
mechanism inside the root, and the hyphae of the fungus extend beyond the root.
Compared to the ectomycorrhizal interaction, it is a more intrusive one.
Types of Endomycorrhiza
The particular kinds of endomycorrhiza are further categorized as follows:
Orchidaceous Mycorrhizae
Arbuscular Mycorrhizae
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Ericaceous Mycorrhizae
Arbutoid Mycorrhizae
Ectotrophic Mycorrhiza
1. Orchid Mycorrhiza
As previously stated, certain orchids are unable to photosynthesize until they reach
the seedling stage. The remaining orchids are completely non-photosynthetic.
But every orchid relies on the sugars that its fungal partner gives it for at least a
portion of its existence. Because orchid seeds cannot independently absorb enough
nutrients to grow, they need fungal infection in order to germinate.
The orchid parasitizes the fungus that infects its roots in this partnership.
The hyphae of orchidaceous mycorrhiza penetrate the root’s cells and form hyphal
coils, or pelotons, which serve as nutrient exchange sites, once the seed coat
breaks and roots begin to emerge.
2. Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AMF)
The most common type of micorrhizae are arbuscular mycorrhizae, which are well-
known for their particularly strong affinity for phosphorus and capacity for nutrient
absorption.
They create arbuscules, which are the locations of exchange for nutrients like
phosphorus, carbon, and water.
The fungi that participate in this mycorrhizal relationship belong to the zygomycota
family and seem to be obligate symbionts. Simply put, the fungi cannot live without
their host plant.
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Arbutoid Mycorrhizae
Ectotrophic Mycorrhiza
1. Orchid Mycorrhiza
As previously stated, certain orchids are unable to photosynthesize until they reach
the seedling stage. The remaining orchids are completely non-photosynthetic.
But every orchid relies on the sugars that its fungal partner gives it for at least a
portion of its existence. Because orchid seeds cannot independently absorb enough
nutrients to grow, they need fungal infection in order to germinate.
The orchid parasitizes the fungus that infects its roots in this partnership.
The hyphae of orchidaceous mycorrhiza penetrate the root’s cells and form hyphal
coils, or pelotons, which serve as nutrient exchange sites, once the seed coat
breaks and roots begin to emerge.
2. Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AMF)
The most common type of micorrhizae are arbuscular mycorrhizae, which are well-
known for their particularly strong affinity for phosphorus and capacity for nutrient
absorption.
They create arbuscules, which are the locations of exchange for nutrients like
phosphorus, carbon, and water.
The fungi that participate in this mycorrhizal relationship belong to the zygomycota
family and seem to be obligate symbionts. Simply put, the fungi cannot live without
their host plant.
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3. Ericaceous Mycorrhiza
Plants of the order Ericales and those growing in harsh, acidic conditions are
commonly associated with ericaceous mycorrhizae.
Ericoid mycorrhiza does not produce arbuscules, although they do enter and
invaginate the root cells.
Nevertheless, they aid in controlling the plant’s absorption of minerals such as
aluminum, manganese, and iron.
Furthermore, mycorrhizal fungi produce hyphal coils outside of the root cells, which
greatly increase the root’s volume.
4. Arbutoid Mycorrhiza
Arbutoid mycorrhiza resembles ectomycorrhizal fungi in appearance and is a kind of
endomycorrhizal fungus.
Unlike ectomycorrhizal fungi, which create a fungal sheath around the plant’s roots,
arbutoid mycorrhiza hyphae penetrate the plant root’s cortical cells.
5. Ectotrophic Mycorrhiza
The fungi that participate in this mycorrhizal interaction belong to the Basidiomyota
and Ascomyota families.
They may be seen in a variety of trees in colder climates.
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Plants of the order Ericales and those growing in harsh, acidic conditions are
commonly associated with ericaceous mycorrhizae.
Ericoid mycorrhiza does not produce arbuscules, although they do enter and
invaginate the root cells.
Nevertheless, they aid in controlling the plant’s absorption of minerals such as
aluminum, manganese, and iron.
Furthermore, mycorrhizal fungi produce hyphal coils outside of the root cells, which
greatly increase the root’s volume.
4. Arbutoid Mycorrhiza
Arbutoid mycorrhiza resembles ectomycorrhizal fungi in appearance and is a kind of
endomycorrhizal fungus.
Unlike ectomycorrhizal fungi, which create a fungal sheath around the plant’s roots,
arbutoid mycorrhiza hyphae penetrate the plant root’s cortical cells.
5. Ectotrophic Mycorrhiza
The fungi that participate in this mycorrhizal interaction belong to the Basidiomyota
and Ascomyota families.
They may be seen in a variety of trees in colder climates.
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In contrast to their wood-rotting relatives, these fungi obtain their sustenance and
sugars from the roots of their live plant host and are not equipped to break down
cellulose and other plant matter.
Examples of Mycorrhizal Plants
Ectomycorrhiza Examples:
Pines: There are several types of pine trees, including the Scotch pine, that create
ectomycorrhizal connections.
Oak Trees: Oaks, such as the northern red oak, are frequently found to be in
ectomycorrhizal symbiosis.
Birch Trees: The majority of birch trees, like the silver birch, have ectomycorrhizal
connections.
Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Examples:
Grasses: Arbuscular mycorrhizal interactions are found in several grass species,
such as wheat and maize.
Legumes: Plants like peas and soybeans commonly form arbuscular mycorrhizal
interactions.
Sunflowers: The common sunflower is an example of a plant that can form
arbuscular mycorrhizal connections.
Mycorrhizae: The Symbiotic Relationship between Fungi and
Roots
Low nutrient concentration, a sluggish diffusion rate, or insufficient soil moisture can
cause a nutrient depletion zone to form when there is quick soil solution absorption.
Because these circumstances are so prevalent, the majority of plants depend on
fungi to aid in mineral absorption from the soil.
Mycorrhizae sometimes referred to as root fungi; create symbiotic relationships with
plant roots.
The fungi are truly incorporated into the root’s physical makeup in these
relationships.
During active plant growth, the live root tissue is colonized by the fungus.
The plant acquires phosphate and other minerals, such as zinc and copper, from the
soil via mycorrhization.
The plant root supplies the fungus with nutrients, such as sugars.
Due to the fact that hyphae are tiny and may extend outside the nutrient depletion
zone, mycorrhizae help enlarge the surface area of the plant root system.
Hyphae are lengthy fungal extensions that have the potential to enter tiny soil pores,
providing the plant with access to phosphorus that it would not have otherwise. The
plant’s positive effect is most evident in bad soils.
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sugars from the roots of their live plant host and are not equipped to break down
cellulose and other plant matter.
Examples of Mycorrhizal Plants
Ectomycorrhiza Examples:
Pines: There are several types of pine trees, including the Scotch pine, that create
ectomycorrhizal connections.
Oak Trees: Oaks, such as the northern red oak, are frequently found to be in
ectomycorrhizal symbiosis.
Birch Trees: The majority of birch trees, like the silver birch, have ectomycorrhizal
connections.
Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Examples:
Grasses: Arbuscular mycorrhizal interactions are found in several grass species,
such as wheat and maize.
Legumes: Plants like peas and soybeans commonly form arbuscular mycorrhizal
interactions.
Sunflowers: The common sunflower is an example of a plant that can form
arbuscular mycorrhizal connections.
Mycorrhizae: The Symbiotic Relationship between Fungi and
Roots
Low nutrient concentration, a sluggish diffusion rate, or insufficient soil moisture can
cause a nutrient depletion zone to form when there is quick soil solution absorption.
Because these circumstances are so prevalent, the majority of plants depend on
fungi to aid in mineral absorption from the soil.
Mycorrhizae sometimes referred to as root fungi; create symbiotic relationships with
plant roots.
The fungi are truly incorporated into the root’s physical makeup in these
relationships.
During active plant growth, the live root tissue is colonized by the fungus.
The plant acquires phosphate and other minerals, such as zinc and copper, from the
soil via mycorrhization.
The plant root supplies the fungus with nutrients, such as sugars.
Due to the fact that hyphae are tiny and may extend outside the nutrient depletion
zone, mycorrhizae help enlarge the surface area of the plant root system.
Hyphae are lengthy fungal extensions that have the potential to enter tiny soil pores,
providing the plant with access to phosphorus that it would not have otherwise. The
plant’s positive effect is most evident in bad soils.
6/28
Fungi gain the advantage of being able to access up to 20% of the total carbon that
plants utilize.
The physical barrier to pathogens is provided by mycorrhizae.
In addition, they cause an induction of widespread host defense mechanisms, which
may include the synthesis of antibiotic chemicals by the fungi.
Additionally, fungi have been shown to play a protective role for plants rooted in
soils with high metal concentrations, such as acidic and polluted soils.
Ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae are the two main forms of mycorrhizae.
The thick, dense covering that ectomycorrhizae create around the roots is known as
the mantle.
The mantle’s fungal hyphae protrude into the soil, expanding the surface area for
nutrient and water absorption.
Forest trees, notably conifers, birches, and oaks, have this kind of mycorrhizae.
Endomycorrhizae, sometimes known as arbuscular mycorrhizae, do not form a thick
covering over the root.
Rather, the root tissue contains the fungal mycelium.
Plant Benefits from Mycorrhizae
Mycorrhiza connections are especially helpful in places where the soil lacks enough
nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as in regions where access to water is restricted.
The mycorrhizal mycelia are far smaller and thinner than roots and root hairs, which
greatly increase the surface area available for absorption of nitrogen, amino acids,
phosphorus, and water much like a second set of roots.
Plants that have mycorrhizal connections have an advantage over those that
depend only on roots for nutrient absorption because these elements are crucial for
plant development.
Plants may be outcompeted without mycorrhiza, which may result in a shift in the
area’s plant makeup.
In addition, research has shown that plants with mycorrhizal associations are more
resistant to specific diseases that are transmitted through the soil. As a matter of
fact, mycorrhizal fungi might be a useful strategy for managing diseases.
They form a physical barrier between plant roots and pathogens in the instance of
sheathing mycorrhiza.
Mycorrhiza also compete with pathogens for the absorption of vital nutrients, thicken
the root’s cell walls through lignifications and the synthesis of additional
carbohydrates, encourage the production of metabolites that boost disease
resistance, promote flavonolic wall infusions that protect against lesion development
and pathogen invasion, and raise the concentration of orthodihydorxy phenol and
other allochemicals in plant roots to prevent pathogenic activity.
Mycorrhizal fungi can also confer to its host plant resistance to toxicity and
resistance to insects, in addition to disease resistance, which ultimately enhances
the health and fitness of the plant.
7/28
plants utilize.
The physical barrier to pathogens is provided by mycorrhizae.
In addition, they cause an induction of widespread host defense mechanisms, which
may include the synthesis of antibiotic chemicals by the fungi.
Additionally, fungi have been shown to play a protective role for plants rooted in
soils with high metal concentrations, such as acidic and polluted soils.
Ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae are the two main forms of mycorrhizae.
The thick, dense covering that ectomycorrhizae create around the roots is known as
the mantle.
The mantle’s fungal hyphae protrude into the soil, expanding the surface area for
nutrient and water absorption.
Forest trees, notably conifers, birches, and oaks, have this kind of mycorrhizae.
Endomycorrhizae, sometimes known as arbuscular mycorrhizae, do not form a thick
covering over the root.
Rather, the root tissue contains the fungal mycelium.
Plant Benefits from Mycorrhizae
Mycorrhiza connections are especially helpful in places where the soil lacks enough
nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as in regions where access to water is restricted.
The mycorrhizal mycelia are far smaller and thinner than roots and root hairs, which
greatly increase the surface area available for absorption of nitrogen, amino acids,
phosphorus, and water much like a second set of roots.
Plants that have mycorrhizal connections have an advantage over those that
depend only on roots for nutrient absorption because these elements are crucial for
plant development.
Plants may be outcompeted without mycorrhiza, which may result in a shift in the
area’s plant makeup.
In addition, research has shown that plants with mycorrhizal associations are more
resistant to specific diseases that are transmitted through the soil. As a matter of
fact, mycorrhizal fungi might be a useful strategy for managing diseases.
They form a physical barrier between plant roots and pathogens in the instance of
sheathing mycorrhiza.
Mycorrhiza also compete with pathogens for the absorption of vital nutrients, thicken
the root’s cell walls through lignifications and the synthesis of additional
carbohydrates, encourage the production of metabolites that boost disease
resistance, promote flavonolic wall infusions that protect against lesion development
and pathogen invasion, and raise the concentration of orthodihydorxy phenol and
other allochemicals in plant roots to prevent pathogenic activity.
Mycorrhizal fungi can also confer to its host plant resistance to toxicity and
resistance to insects, in addition to disease resistance, which ultimately enhances
the health and fitness of the plant.
7/28
Mycorrhizal fungi can link individual plants within a mycorrhizal network in more
complex interactions. The purpose of this network is to convey substances like
water, carbon, and other nutrients from plant to plant, and it even offers a form of
defense communication through chemicals that indicate an assault on a member of
the network.
In addition to using these signals to initiate the creation of organic insect repellents,
plants can also use them to induce the production of an attractant that attracts the
natural enemies of the pests that attack the plant!
Certain plants, like trees in dystrophic forests, can avoid the requirement for soil
absorption thanks to mycorrhizal fungi. Through mycorrhizal hyphae, phosphates
and other nutrients are absorbed directly from the leaf litter.
Mycorrhizal fungi are also able to modify the environment in ways that benefit the
host plants, such as by enhancing soil structure and quality.
Mycorrhizal fungi filaments produce humic substances, polysaccharides, and
glycoproteins that bind soils, improve soil porosity, and facilitate the movement of air
and water into the soil.
Better soil structure can be more crucial to plant survival than nutrient absorption in
areas with extremely sandy or compacted soils.
Some ectomycorrhizal symbioses form structures that support nitrogen-fixing
bacteria, which would significantly aid plants in absorbing nitrogen in nutrient-
deprived conditions and would be a major component of the nitrogen cycle. But the
mycorrhizal fungi do not fix nitrogen on their own.
Significance of Mycorrhiza in Agriculture and Forestry
The surface area of roots can be increased by mycorrhizae, which enhances a
plant’s capacity to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
It lowers the need for irrigation and fertilizer.
It gives the plant resistance to pests and drought.
Plants can become more resistant to a variety of environmental challenges thanks
to mycorrhizae.
Mycorrhizae can aid in the development and upkeep of soil quality and structure. In
addition to this, they have the ability to produce humic chemicals and organic
adhesives that promote soil porosity and aggregate development.
It can aid plants in establishing and surviving during seeding or transplanting.
The links aid in soil carbon sequestration.
The variety and stability of plant communities are enhanced by mycorrhizae.
Commercial Uses, Products and Costs
Mycorrhizae are made for a variety of applications, such as landscaping, nurseries,
orchards/vineyards, commercial producers, homeowners, and land restoration
initiatives.
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complex interactions. The purpose of this network is to convey substances like
water, carbon, and other nutrients from plant to plant, and it even offers a form of
defense communication through chemicals that indicate an assault on a member of
the network.
In addition to using these signals to initiate the creation of organic insect repellents,
plants can also use them to induce the production of an attractant that attracts the
natural enemies of the pests that attack the plant!
Certain plants, like trees in dystrophic forests, can avoid the requirement for soil
absorption thanks to mycorrhizal fungi. Through mycorrhizal hyphae, phosphates
and other nutrients are absorbed directly from the leaf litter.
Mycorrhizal fungi are also able to modify the environment in ways that benefit the
host plants, such as by enhancing soil structure and quality.
Mycorrhizal fungi filaments produce humic substances, polysaccharides, and
glycoproteins that bind soils, improve soil porosity, and facilitate the movement of air
and water into the soil.
Better soil structure can be more crucial to plant survival than nutrient absorption in
areas with extremely sandy or compacted soils.
Some ectomycorrhizal symbioses form structures that support nitrogen-fixing
bacteria, which would significantly aid plants in absorbing nitrogen in nutrient-
deprived conditions and would be a major component of the nitrogen cycle. But the
mycorrhizal fungi do not fix nitrogen on their own.
Significance of Mycorrhiza in Agriculture and Forestry
The surface area of roots can be increased by mycorrhizae, which enhances a
plant’s capacity to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
It lowers the need for irrigation and fertilizer.
It gives the plant resistance to pests and drought.
Plants can become more resistant to a variety of environmental challenges thanks
to mycorrhizae.
Mycorrhizae can aid in the development and upkeep of soil quality and structure. In
addition to this, they have the ability to produce humic chemicals and organic
adhesives that promote soil porosity and aggregate development.
It can aid plants in establishing and surviving during seeding or transplanting.
The links aid in soil carbon sequestration.
The variety and stability of plant communities are enhanced by mycorrhizae.
Commercial Uses, Products and Costs
Mycorrhizae are made for a variety of applications, such as landscaping, nurseries,
orchards/vineyards, commercial producers, homeowners, and land restoration
initiatives.
8/28
Mycorrhizal fungi are widely employed in organic production as well. It’s worth
mentioning that most soils already have mycorrhizae, so it might not be necessary
to buy them.
Since the majority of soilless media lack mycorrhizae, they may be included if
planting in pots.
Mycorrhizal fungi may be found as a concentrated solution, in granular form, or as a
powder.
Depending on the product and amount needed, the cost of items might range from a
few dollars to hundreds of dollars.
The type, quantity, and spore counts of the fungi used as well as the price vary.
Companies like Plant Success, Bio Organics, Soil Moist, and ARBICO Organics sell
mycorrhizal fungi online or at garden centers and nurseries.
Precautions for Effective Mycorrhizal Use
The ideal temperature for storing products is between 40° and 140° F (Fahrenheit).
High doses of zinc, nitrogen, and phosphorus will prevent mycorrhizal infection.
The majority of items have a shelf life that ranges from months to several years.
Mycorrhizae fungi are a kind of fungus, so fungicides should be avoided.
Conclusion
Mycorrhizal fungi are indispensable partners in plant growth, especially in nutrient-poor or
water-scarce environments. By forming mutualistic symbioses with plant roots, they
significantly enhance nutrient uptake, improve soil health, increase stress tolerance, and
contribute to ecosystem stability.
In agriculture, forestry, and ecological restoration, mycorrhizal inoculation offers a
sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, helping to boost productivity while
preserving environmental balance. Harnessing the power of these microscopic allies is
a key step toward a greener, more resilient future in plant science and soil management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Mycorrhizal Associations
Q1: What are mycorrhizae in plants?
9/28
mentioning that most soils already have mycorrhizae, so it might not be necessary
to buy them.
Since the majority of soilless media lack mycorrhizae, they may be included if
planting in pots.
Mycorrhizal fungi may be found as a concentrated solution, in granular form, or as a
powder.
Depending on the product and amount needed, the cost of items might range from a
few dollars to hundreds of dollars.
The type, quantity, and spore counts of the fungi used as well as the price vary.
Companies like Plant Success, Bio Organics, Soil Moist, and ARBICO Organics sell
mycorrhizal fungi online or at garden centers and nurseries.
Precautions for Effective Mycorrhizal Use
The ideal temperature for storing products is between 40° and 140° F (Fahrenheit).
High doses of zinc, nitrogen, and phosphorus will prevent mycorrhizal infection.
The majority of items have a shelf life that ranges from months to several years.
Mycorrhizae fungi are a kind of fungus, so fungicides should be avoided.
Conclusion
Mycorrhizal fungi are indispensable partners in plant growth, especially in nutrient-poor or
water-scarce environments. By forming mutualistic symbioses with plant roots, they
significantly enhance nutrient uptake, improve soil health, increase stress tolerance, and
contribute to ecosystem stability.
In agriculture, forestry, and ecological restoration, mycorrhizal inoculation offers a
sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, helping to boost productivity while
preserving environmental balance. Harnessing the power of these microscopic allies is
a key step toward a greener, more resilient future in plant science and soil management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Mycorrhizal Associations
Q1: What are mycorrhizae in plants?
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Mycorrhizae are beneficial fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots,
helping them absorb water and nutrients like phosphorus, while plants provide sugars to
the fungi.
Q2: What are the types of mycorrhizal fungi?
11/28
helping them absorb water and nutrients like phosphorus, while plants provide sugars to
the fungi.
Q2: What are the types of mycorrhizal fungi?
11/28
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Q3: Do all plants need mycorrhizal fungi?
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Q4: How do mycorrhizal fungi help plants grow?
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Q5: Can farmers use mycorrhizae in agriculture?
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Q6: Which crops benefit most from mycorrhizal fungi?
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Q7: How can you increase mycorrhiza in soil naturally?
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Q8: Are mycorrhizal fungi the same as nitrogen-fixing bacteria?
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Reference and Sources
Mycorrhizae – Definition, Examples, Types and Quiz | Biology Dictionary
Mycorrhizal types
An Overview of Mycorrhizae – Types, Examples, and Importance – GeeksforGeeks
Mycorrhizal Fungi | Oklahoma State University
3B: Mycorrhizae- The Symbiotic Relationship between Fungi and Roots – Biology
LibreTexts
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quiz is perfect for beginners and those preparing for exams or interviews. Each question
tests your grasp of fundamental principles that form the backbone of microbiology.
Whether you're a high school student, undergraduate, or just curious about microbes, this
quiz will sharpen your knowledge and boost your confidence.
1 / 30
Koch’s postulates are used to:
2 / 30
What kind of immunity is passed from mother to baby?
3 / 30
Which technique separates proteins by size?
4 / 30
Which bacteria lack a cell wall?
5 / 30
Which of the following is a dimorphic fungus?
6 / 30
What is the main component of bacterial cell walls?
26/28
Reference and Sources
Mycorrhizae – Definition, Examples, Types and Quiz | Biology Dictionary
Mycorrhizal types
An Overview of Mycorrhizae – Types, Examples, and Importance – GeeksforGeeks
Mycorrhizal Fungi | Oklahoma State University
3B: Mycorrhizae- The Symbiotic Relationship between Fungi and Roots – Biology
LibreTexts
Microbiology Quiz: Test Your Knowledge
Basic Microbiology Quiz
Basic Microbiology Quiz is designed to help students and science enthusiasts reinforce
their understanding of core microbiology concepts. Covering topics like microbial
classification, cell structure, staining techniques, microscopy, and early discoveries, this
quiz is perfect for beginners and those preparing for exams or interviews. Each question
tests your grasp of fundamental principles that form the backbone of microbiology.
Whether you're a high school student, undergraduate, or just curious about microbes, this
quiz will sharpen your knowledge and boost your confidence.
1 / 30
Koch’s postulates are used to:
2 / 30
What kind of immunity is passed from mother to baby?
3 / 30
Which technique separates proteins by size?
4 / 30
Which bacteria lack a cell wall?
5 / 30
Which of the following is a dimorphic fungus?
6 / 30
What is the main component of bacterial cell walls?
26/28
7 / 30
Which organelle is absent in prokaryotic cells?
8 / 30
Viroids differ from viruses in that they lack:
9 / 30
A bacteriophage is:
10 / 30
CRISPR in bacteria serves as a:
11 / 30
What is the function of the sigma factor in bacteria?
12 / 30
Which of the following bacteria is acid-fast?
13 / 30
Which of the following is a facultative anaerobe?
14 / 30
Which of the following is used in the diagnosis of HIV?
15 / 30
The first vaccine was developed against which disease?
16 / 30
Who is considered the father of microbiology?
17 / 30
Reverse transcriptase is found in:
18 / 30
Which structure protects bacteria from phagocytosis?
19 / 30
Gram-positive bacteria stain:
27/28
Which organelle is absent in prokaryotic cells?
8 / 30
Viroids differ from viruses in that they lack:
9 / 30
A bacteriophage is:
10 / 30
CRISPR in bacteria serves as a:
11 / 30
What is the function of the sigma factor in bacteria?
12 / 30
Which of the following bacteria is acid-fast?
13 / 30
Which of the following is a facultative anaerobe?
14 / 30
Which of the following is used in the diagnosis of HIV?
15 / 30
The first vaccine was developed against which disease?
16 / 30
Who is considered the father of microbiology?
17 / 30
Reverse transcriptase is found in:
18 / 30
Which structure protects bacteria from phagocytosis?
19 / 30
Gram-positive bacteria stain:
27/28
20 / 30
Which of the following is NOT a prokaryote?
21 / 30
Autotrophic bacteria produce energy through:
22 / 30
Which structure is responsible for bacterial motility?
23 / 30
Which process involves the transfer of naked DNA between bacteria?
24 / 30
What is the generation time?
25 / 30
Which enzyme is responsible for relaxing supercoiled DNA during replication?
26 / 30
Which is the most common bacterial shape?
27 / 30
Which of the following is used to sterilize heat-sensitive materials?
28 / 30
Which medium is selective for Gram-negative bacteria?
29 / 30
Endotoxins are found in:
30 / 30
Taq polymerase is used in:
Your score is
The average score is 59%
0%
28/28
Which of the following is NOT a prokaryote?
21 / 30
Autotrophic bacteria produce energy through:
22 / 30
Which structure is responsible for bacterial motility?
23 / 30
Which process involves the transfer of naked DNA between bacteria?
24 / 30
What is the generation time?
25 / 30
Which enzyme is responsible for relaxing supercoiled DNA during replication?
26 / 30
Which is the most common bacterial shape?
27 / 30
Which of the following is used to sterilize heat-sensitive materials?
28 / 30
Which medium is selective for Gram-negative bacteria?
29 / 30
Endotoxins are found in:
30 / 30
Taq polymerase is used in:
Your score is
The average score is 59%
0%
28/28
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