Answer:
Introduction:
Absorption of phosphorus from the soil is an essential process for plants as phosphorus is a crucial element required for various metabolic processes. Plants have developed various mechanisms to enhance the absorption of phosphorus, and one such mechanism involves the association with beneficial soil microorganisms. Among these microorganisms, Glomus, a type of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, plays a significant role in facilitating phosphorus uptake by plants.

Glomus:
Glomus is a genus of fungi that form symbiotic associations with the roots of most vascular plants. These associations, called arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM), are mutualistic, benefiting both the plant and the fungus. The fungi provide the plant with essential nutrients, including phosphorus, in exchange for carbohydrates produced by the plant through photosynthesis.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF):
AMF colonize the roots of plants and form specialized structures called arbuscules, which are highly branched and invaginated within the root cells. These arbuscules increase the surface area of the root for nutrient exchange. The hyphae of AMF extend into the soil, exploring a larger volume of soil and acquiring phosphorus more effectively than plant roots alone.

Phosphorus Absorption:
Phosphorus in the soil exists in an organic form (bound to organic matter) and an inorganic form (bound to minerals). The inorganic form is the most plant-available form. However, phosphorus is relatively immobile in soil, and its uptake by roots is limited. This is where the association with Glomus fungi becomes crucial.

Role of Glomus in Phosphorus Absorption:
1. Enhanced Nutrient Uptake: The hyphae of Glomus fungi extend into the soil, increasing the volume of soil explored for nutrients, including phosphorus. The fungi can access sources of phosphorus that are not readily available to plant roots alone.
2. Phosphorus Solubilization: Glomus fungi release enzymes, such as phosphatases, that break down organic phosphorus compounds in the soil into inorganic phosphorus forms, which are more easily absorbed by plants.
3. Improved Nutrient Transport: The arbuscules formed by Glomus fungi increase the surface area of the root for nutrient exchange. They also facilitate the transport of phosphorus from the fungal hyphae to the plant roots.

Conclusion:
In summary, Glomus, a type of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, helps in the absorption of phosphorus from the soil by plants through enhanced nutrient uptake, phosphorus solubilization, and improved nutrient transport. This association between plants and Glomus fungi is beneficial for both parties, as the plants gain access to essential phosphorus, and the fungi receive carbohydrates produced by the plants.