Mycorrhizal roots of ____ are associated with some fungal symbionts.a)...
Mycorrhizal roots of Pinus are associated with some fungal symbionts.
Explanation:
- Mycorrhizal roots are specialized roots that form a mutualistic association with certain fungi. This association benefits both the plant and the fungus.
- Pinus, commonly known as pine trees, are known to form mycorrhizal associations with a specific group of fungi called ectomycorrhizal fungi.
- Ectomycorrhizal fungi form a sheath-like structure around the root tips of the pine tree, known as the mantle, and also penetrate into the intercellular spaces of the root cortex, forming a network of hyphae.
- This association between Pinus and ectomycorrhizal fungi is crucial for the growth and survival of the pine tree.
- The fungal hyphae help in increasing the surface area of the root system, enhancing nutrient uptake, especially phosphorus and nitrogen, from the soil.
- In return, the pine tree provides the fungus with carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis.
- This mutualistic relationship plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as it facilitates nutrient cycling and enhances the resilience of both the plant and the fungus to various environmental stresses.
- The association between Pinus and ectomycorrhizal fungi is highly specific, with certain fungal species being preferentially associated with particular species of pine trees.
- This specificity indicates the co-evolution of both the plant and the fungus, where they have developed a specialized relationship over time.
- The mycorrhizal association between Pinus and ectomycorrhizal fungi is not only beneficial for the plant but also contributes to the diversity and functioning of forest ecosystems.
Mycorrhizal roots of ____ are associated with some fungal symbionts.a)...
The mycorrhizal roots of Pinus are associated with some fungal symbionts.
Mycorrhizal roots are a type of root system that form a mutualistic association with certain fungi. This symbiotic relationship benefits both the plant and the fungi involved. The mycorrhizal association enhances the plant's ability to absorb nutrients from the soil, particularly phosphorus, while the fungi receive carbohydrates from the plant.
Pinus and Mycorrhizal Association:
Pinus, commonly known as pine trees, are known to form mycorrhizal associations with certain fungi. In particular, they form ectomycorrhizal associations, which involve fungal hyphae forming a sheath around the root tips without penetrating the root cells.
Benefits of Mycorrhizal Association for Pinus:
1. Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: The fungal hyphae extend into the soil, greatly increasing the surface area available for nutrient absorption. This allows Pinus to access nutrients, such as phosphorus, that are typically less available in the soil.
2. Water Uptake: The mycorrhizal association also improves the plant's ability to take up water from the soil. The extensive fungal network helps in the absorption and transportation of water to the plant roots.
3. Disease Resistance: The fungi involved in the mycorrhizal association can provide a level of protection against soil-borne pathogens. They may compete with pathogens for resources or produce compounds that inhibit their growth.
4. Environmental Adaptation: The mycorrhizal association can help Pinus trees adapt to various environmental conditions, such as drought or nutrient-poor soils. The fungi enhance the plant's ability to withstand stress and improve its overall fitness.
Other Options:
- Cedrus: Cedrus, commonly known as cedar trees, also form mycorrhizal associations. However, the specific fungal symbionts may differ from those associated with Pinus.
- Cycas: Cycas, a type of gymnosperm, also forms mycorrhizal associations. However, the specific fungal symbionts may differ from those associated with Pinus.
- Ginkgo: Ginkgo, another gymnosperm, is known to form mycorrhizal associations. However, the specific fungal symbionts may differ from those associated with Pinus.
In conclusion, the mycorrhizal roots of Pinus are associated with certain fungal symbionts, forming an ectomycorrhizal association. This association provides numerous benefits to the plant, including enhanced nutrient absorption, water uptake, disease resistance, and environmental adaptation.