Definition

Mycorrhiza is a specific group of fungi. These fungi live in symbiosis with plant roots. The plant provides sugars to the fungus, and the fungus in turn supplies nutrients and water from the soil to the plant.

Importance in soil

Each mycorrhizal fungus has a specific function. For example, some mycorrhizal fungi primarily take up inorganic nutrients, while other fungi take up organic nutrients. In addition, mycorrhizal fungi can contribute to the resistance of trees to soil borne pathogens, drought and heavy metals.

Mycorrhiza make an important contribution to the resilience of crops.

Types of mycorrhiza:

• Arbuscular mycorrhiza – this is most common form of mycorrhiza in agriculture and horticulture. The fungal filaments grow in the root, but do not penetrate the cell.
• Endomycorrhiza – this mycorhizza is particularly common in orchids. The fungal filaments penetrate into the cells of the root.
• Ectomycorrhiza – these mycorrhiza occur on certain trees, such as pine and birch.

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