A mycorrhiza (from Ancient Greek μύκης (múkēs) 'fungus' and ῥίζα (rhíza) 'root'; pl. mycorrhizae, mycorrhiza, or mycorrhizas) [1] is a symbiotic association between a fungus and a plant, [2] in which fungal hyphae and plant roots become interconnected and form an interface on the cellular level. [3][4][5] The term mycorrhiza refers ...

Understanding the Context

Mycorrhizae are networks of fungi that live in the soil and help plants grow and survive. They can improve a plant's ability to absorb nutrients and protect plants from diseases and droughts. Herein, we provide an update of recent findings and reports on mycorrhizae as the cornerstone of a "second green revolution" and the types of mycorrhizae that enhance plant growth. To be more specific, mycorrhizae are fungi that have a symbiotic relationship with the roots of many plants.

Key Insights

The fungi which commonly form mycorrhizal relationships with plants are ubiquitous in the soil. Mycorrhizae are present in 92% of plant families (80% of species). Plants allow, and indeed require, mycorrhizal fungi to colonize their roots. In this symbiotic relationship, fungal hyphae greatly expand the ability of plants to obtain nutrients and water. 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.

Final Thoughts

Mycorrhizae, symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots, play a pivotal role in the ecological dynamics of various ecosystems. Their influence spans from nutrient cycling to plant community structuring and even extends to the food web.