Mycorrhiza
/my-koh-RY-zah/🦋 Ecology●● Intermediate
Also known as: mycorrhizae, mycorrhizal association
Mycorrhiza describes the mutualistic relationship where fungal hyphae colonize plant roots, extending the root system's effective absorptive area by up to 1000 times. The fungus receives carbohydrates from the plant while providing enhanced uptake of phosphorus, water, and micronutrients. Approximately 90% of plant species form mycorrhizal associations. The two main types are ectomycorrhiza (surrounding root tips) and endomycorrhiza (penetrating root cells).
Etymology
From Greek mykes (fungus) + rhiza (root)
Example
“The poor growth of transplanted oaks improved dramatically after inoculation with ectomycorrhizal fungi.”