How do mycorrhizal fungi benefit plants? (Site 1)

Answer 1

Mycorrhizal fungi form a beneficial symbiotic relationship with plants, where they attach to the plant roots and provide increased access to nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen from the soil. In exchange, the plants provide the fungi with carbohydrates and other essential nutrients. This association not only helps the individual plant's growth and survival, but also benefits the entire ecosystem by improving soil quality and promoting biodiversity. The fungi can also help plants tolerate environmental stresses such as drought and disease, making them more resilient. Overall, mycorrhizal fungi play a critical role in sustaining plant communities and ecosystem health.