Mycorrhiza, Definitions, Types, and Benefits for NEET Exam

Mycorrhizae are symbiotic relationships between fungi and the roots of higher plants, particularly Gymnosperms  and Angiosperms. This mutually beneficial association allows the fungus to obtain nourishment from the plant's root cortical cells, while the plant benefits from the increased surface area provided by the fungal hyphae, enhancing its absorption of water and nutrients. The study of mycorrhizae is an important topic in the  NEET Exam and a crucial part of the NEET biology syllabus , as it highlights key ecological interactions vital for plant growth and survival.

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Definition of Mycorrhiza

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Types of Mycorrhiza

Ectomycorrhiza

Endomycorrhiza

• Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AMF) : The most widespread type, involving fungi from the division Glomeromycota, where the fungus forms arbuscules inside the root cells for nutrient exchange.
• Ericoid Mycorrhiza : Found in plants of the Ericaceae family, these fungi help their host plants absorb nutrients from decomposing organic matter, giving them access to otherwise inaccessible resources.
• Monotropoid Mycorrhiza : Present in some genera of the Orchidaceae and Monotropoideae subfamily. These plants rely entirely on the fungus for their carbon and are therefore considered heterotrophic or mixotrophic. This relationship is typically parasitic.
• Orchid Mycorrhiza : Orchids rely on mycorrhizal fungi for their nutrient requirements, especially during early seedling development. The fungal hyphae invade the root cells to form pelotons, which aid in nutrient transfer.

Benefits of Mycorrhiza

• Mycorrhizae enhance the plant’s ability to absorb water and essential nutrients from the soil.
• Plants with mycorrhizal associations often require less frequent watering.
• Plants with mycorrhiza tend to grow stronger and are more capable of withstanding environmental stress.
• Mycorrhizae improve plant survival, especially in challenging conditions.
• Mycorrhizal plants release natural compounds that repel harmful insects.

MCQs of Mycorrhiza

Q1. Mycorrhizae are mutualistic and have symbiotic association between;

1. fungi and vascular plants.
2. fungi and non-vascular plants.
3. fungi and roots of higher plants.
4. fungi and bryophytes.

Q2. Mark the correct statement wrt. role of plant in mycorrhiza;

1. help in water uptake.
2. help in mineral nutrient uptake.
3. help in phosphate solubilization.
4. provide food to fungi.

Q3. Association between Mycobiont and phycobiont are found in;

1. mycorrhiza.
2. root.
3. lichens.
4. BGA.

Answers of MCQS of Mycorrhiza

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