In a mycorrhizal relationship, what benefit does the plant get from the fungus?
a. an energy source
b. aid in seed dispersal
c. products of photosynthesis
d. aid in the absorption of water and minerals<-- (My Answer)
Please help me, i'm having trouble with this one and i would really appreciate the help. i really dont wanna get a bad grade and make my mother mad at me
I'm sure you'll do good Zurai. I believe that your answer is correct because mychorrizae fungi colonize the roots of a plant and allow the plant to be able to absorb more water. I hope this helps.
thank you so much ^^ this did help me :D i am thankful that you have taken the time to answer me ^^
No problem. Any time
No worries, I'm here to help! Let's go through each option and explain how you can arrive at the correct answer.
a. an energy source: In a mycorrhizal relationship, the plant utilizes sunlight to carry out photosynthesis and produce its own energy, so it doesn't need the fungus for this purpose.
b. aid in seed dispersal: Mycorrhizal relationships involve a mutually beneficial association between plants and fungi where the plant provides carbohydrates to the fungus, while the fungus aids the plant in absorbing water and minerals. Seed dispersal is not directly related to this relationship, so this option can be eliminated.
c. products of photosynthesis: As mentioned earlier, the plant itself performs photosynthesis and produces its own carbohydrates. Therefore, it doesn't receive the products of photosynthesis from the fungus.
d. aid in the absorption of water and minerals: This is the correct answer! Mycorrhizal fungi form a network of hyphae (tiny filaments) that extend into the soil. These hyphae increase the surface area available for absorbing water and minerals, enhancing the plant's ability to obtain essential nutrients.
Based on this explanation, it is clear that the plant benefits from the mycorrhizal relationship through the fungi's assistance in the absorption of water and minerals.
I hope this helps! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.