Mycorrhiza: Symbiosis Between Plants and Fungi

Mycorrhiza is a form of non-antagonistic interaction, typically characterized by mutualism between the roots of vascular plants and fungi. In this symbiosis, both parties benefit in ways that contribute to their growth, health, and resilience.

Benefits of Mycorrhiza

Plants engaged in symbiosis with mycorrhizal fungi reap numerous benefits:

• Increased root assimilation surface: Fungal mycelium expands the area through which the plant can absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
• Provision of mineral compounds and micronutrients: Fungi facilitate access to hard-to-reach nutrients, including phosphorus and nitrogen.
• Production of plant hormones: This aids in stimulating plant growth.
• Increased plant resistance to stress: This includes both environmental stress and resistance to pathogens.

Types of Mycorrhiza

Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (Endomycorrhiza)

This is the most common type of mycorrhiza, where fungal hyphae penetrate directly into the root cells, allowing for an even more intensive exchange of nutrients between the fungus and the plant. Arbuscular mycorrhiza affects about 85% of land plant species and is obligatory for many fungi.

Ectomycorrhiza

In ectomycorrhiza, fungal hyphae envelop plant roots, forming a specific structure known as a mantle, which facilitates the exchange of materials between the two organisms. This applies to about 10% of higher plant families.

Ericoid Mycorrhiza

Specific to the heath family of plants, it combines features of the two previously mentioned types of mycorrhiza. This is an example of adaptation of specific plant types to symbiosis with fungi.

Impact of Agriculture and Environment

Intensive farming methods, the use of artificial fertilizers, and herbicides often prevent the development of mycorrhiza, as these substances can negatively affect fungi. Mycorrhiza thrives under natural conditions, where a phosphorus deficiency in the soil stimulates mutual interactions between fungi and plants.

Importance of Mycorrhiza in Organic Farming

For organic growers, maintaining healthy mycorrhiza in the soil is crucial. Proper use of organic fertilizers, such as bat guano or fish meal, can support the development of mycorrhiza, enhancing the natural fertility of the soil and plant health. On the other hand, too high phosphorus concentration in the soil can inhibit mycorrhiza development.

Communication Between Plants and Fungi

Calcium Channel - The Heart of Communication

Recent studies highlight the crucial role of the calcium channel in communication between plants and fungi. This signaling pathway allows not only for the exchange of nutrients but also stress signals and information about the health status of both organisms. As a result, plants can better adapt to changing environmental conditions, and fungi can more effectively support their symbiotic partners.

Strigolactones - Keys to Cooperation

One of the most important elements in this communication is strigolactones - compounds secreted by plant roots that attract mycorrhizal fungi and stimulate their growth. Thus, even in conditions of limited nutrient availability, plants can attract suitable fungi and initiate a mutually beneficial symbiosis.

Importance of Mycorrhiza in Ecosystems

Mycorrhiza plays a key role not only in agriculture but also in natural ecosystems, supporting plant health and aiding soil regeneration. Thanks to its ability to improve soil structure and increase its fertility, mycorrhiza contributes to increased biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

Challenges and Perspectives

Despite the many benefits, maintaining healthy mycorrhiza in modern agricultural systems is a challenge. Excessive chemical use, monocultures, and intensified agricultural production negatively impact plant-fungi symbiosis. Therefore, it is important to promote farming practices that support mycorrhiza development, such as:

• Reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides: Transitioning to organic farming methods that are less invasive to natural symbioses.
• Crop diversity: Practices such as crop rotation and agroforestry can support soil health and its microbiome.
• Addition of mycorrhizal inoculants: Using commercial preparations containing mycorrhizal fungal spores can aid the mycorrhization process, especially on degraded lands.

Summary

Mycorrhiza is a fascinating example of symbiosis that offers a range of benefits for both plants and fungi. It supports plant health, increases their resistance to environmental stresses, and improves soil fertility. In the face of challenges associated with intensive farming and climate changes, understanding and supporting mycorrhiza becomes crucial for the future of sustainable agriculture and ecosystem protection.