What is mycorrhizae?

Mycorrhizae are a crucial component of many plant ecosystems, representing a symbiotic association between plant roots and fungi. This relationship is beneficial for both parties involved: the fungi enhance the plant's ability to absorb water and essential nutrients, particularly phosphorus, from the soil, while the plant provides carbohydrates and other organic substances to the fungi, which they need for growth.

This mutualistic association not only improves plant health and growth but also plays a vital role in soil ecology by increasing nutrient availability and supporting soil structure. The extensive network formed by mycorrhizal fungi can connect individual plants, facilitating nutrient sharing among them.

In contrast, options describing a type of root system, a symbiotic relationship with bacteria, or a type of vascular tissue do not encapsulate the specific and unique interaction characterized by mycorrhizae, which is specifically tied to fungi and plant roots.