Chapter 29 - The Evolution and Diversity of Fungi - 29.2 - Fungi Are Decomposers, Parasites, Predators, or Mutualists - 29.2 Recap - Learning Outcomes - Page 621: 3

Mycorrhizal fungi forms a mutualistic association with plants. The fungus obtains sugars and amino acids from the plant. In return, the fungus increases the reach of the plant's roots so that it can penetrate fine soul and absorb more water and minerals, particularly phosphorus. The greater penetrability offered by the mycorrhizal fungi is the result of the greater surface area to volume ratio of its hyphae.

Mycorrhizal fungi forms a mutualistic association with plants. The fungus obtains sugars and amino acids from the plant. In return, the fungus increases the reach of the plant's roots so that it can penetrate fine soul and absorb more water and minerals, particularly phosphorus. The greater penetrability offered by the mycorrhizal fungi is the result of the greater surface area to volume ratio of its hyphae.