MYCORHIZA Meaning and
Definition
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A mycorrhiza is a mutualistic association between the specialized underground fungal structures called mycelium and the roots of most land plants. It is a symbiotic relationship in which both the fungus and the plant benefit. The word "mycorrhiza" is derived from the Greek words "myco," meaning fungus, and "rhiza," meaning root.
In this association, the mycelium of the fungus forms a network around and within the roots of the plant, creating a highly branched structure that increases the surface area available for nutrient absorption. The fungi provide essential nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen to the plant, which are often scarce in the surrounding soil. In return, the plant supplies the fungus with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis.
Mycorrhizal associations are vital for plant growth and survival, particularly in nutrient-poor soils. The mycelium not only enhances nutrient uptake but also improves the plant's resistance to various stresses, including drought, pathogens, and toxic compounds. This symbiosis has been estimated to occur in over 90% of land plants, making mycorrhizas one of the most widespread and ecologically significant associations in nature.
There are two main types of mycorrhizas: ectomycorrhizas and arbuscular mycorrhizas. Ectomycorrhizas predominantly associate with trees, forming a dense sheath around the root tips. In contrast, arbuscular mycorrhizas are found in a wide range of plants and penetrate the root cells, forming branched structures called arbuscules. These different types of mycorrhizas reflect the diverse strategies used by fungi and plants to exchange nutrients and energy, optimizing their survival and success in various environmental conditions.
Common Misspellings for MYCORHIZA
- nycorhiza
- kycorhiza
- jycorhiza
- mtcorhiza
- mgcorhiza
- mhcorhiza
- mucorhiza
- m7corhiza
- m6corhiza
- myxorhiza
- myvorhiza
- myforhiza
- mydorhiza
- mycirhiza
- myckrhiza
- myclrhiza
- mycprhiza
- myc0rhiza
- myc9rhiza
- mycoehiza
Etymology of MYCORHIZA
The word "mycorrhiza" is derived from two Greek words: "myco", which means fungus, and "rhiza", which means root. The term was coined in the 19th century to describe the symbiotic association between fungi and plant roots. In this relationship, the fungi colonize the roots of the host plant, forming mutualistic structures that benefit both the fungus and the plant.
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