Mycorrhizal Symbiosis:
Imran Ul Haq, Zakria Faizi, Shehla Riaz, Younus Raza, Zaianb Malik
Abstract
Mycorrhizal fungi belonging to the Glomeromycota draw nutrients, such as phosphorus, from the soil and make them available to the plants by establishing a symbiotic relationship with plant roots. The mycorrhizal fungal species develops distinct associations with the plant’s roots, absorbing and transporting a significant amount of phosphate to the plant’s root tissue. Mycorrhiza is considered an adequate substitute that can reduce the use of chemical fertilizer by enhancing nutrient uptake and releasing to the plants. Additionally, mcorrhizal fungi can also induce systemic resistance against biotic stresses and pathogens. This chapter discusses about the classification, biology, morphology of mycorrhiza, its association with different plants, and the mechanism involved in these associations. Furthermore, the role of mycorrhiza in plant disease management and underlaying the mechanisms in reducing plant diseases is also explained in this chapter. It also highlights the critical aspect of mycorrhizas’ role in sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and organic farming.