Question

Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic relationship between roots of higher plants and

• A. virus
• B. fungi
• C. bacteria
• D. blue green algae

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Mycorrhiza is a well-known mutualistic symbiotic relationship primarily involving the roots of higher plants and fungi. This interaction is beneficial to both organisms involved. Here's a detailed explanation of this relationship: 

1. Definition of Mycorrhiza:
   • Mycorrhiza refers to the symbiotic association between plant roots and fungi. The word 'mycorrhiza' is derived from the Greek 'mykes' meaning fungus and 'rhiza' meaning root.
2. Types of Mycorrhiza:
   • Ectomycorrhiza: Fungal hyphae form a dense sheath over the surface of the roots and penetrate between root cells.
   • Endomycorrhiza: Fungal hyphae penetrate the root cells, establishing an intracellular interaction.
3. Benefits of the Symbiotic Relationship:
   • For Plants: Fungi assist in the absorption of water and essential nutrients (like phosphorus and nitrogen) from the soil, enhancing plant growth and health.
   • For Fungi: Plants provide fungi with carbohydrates and organic substances, which are essential for the fungi's energy and growth.
4. Incorrect Options:
   • Virus: Viruses are typically pathogens and do not engage in symbiotic relationships with plant roots.
   • Bacteria: While some bacteria do form symbiotic relationships with plants (like nitrogen-fixing bacteria), mycorrhizae specifically involve fungi.
   • Blue-green algae: These are photosynthetic bacteria (cyanobacteria) and are not involved in mycorrhizal relationships with plants.

Therefore, the correct answer is fungi, which form mycorrhizal associations with plant roots, offering mutual benefits to both organisms involved.