Question

The mycorrhizal relationship between a fungi and the roots of Pinus is

• A. Saprophytic
• B. Symbiotic
• C. Epiphytic
• D. Parasitic

Answer 1

The correct option is B Symbiotic

• Nutrients are often depleted in the soil hence, most plants form symbiotic relationships called mycorrhizae with fungi that integrate into the plant's root.
• The relationship between plants and fungi is symbiotic because the plant obtains phosphate and other minerals through the fungus, while the fungus obtains sugars from the plant root. The long extensions of the fungus, called hyphae, help increase the surface area of the plant root system so that it can extend beyond the area of nutrient depletion.
• Ectomycorrhizae are a type of mycorrhizae that form a dense sheath around the plant roots, called a mantle, from which the hyphae grow; in endomycorrhizae, mycelium is embedded within the root tissue, as opposed to forming a sheath around it.
• In endomycorrhizae, mycelium is embedded within the root tissue, as opposed to forming a sheath around it; these are found in the roots of most terrestrial plants.