Mycorrhizal Colonization

Report includes:

1. Data with recommendations.
2. A 15-minute phone consultation with one of our soil scientists.

Mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots that play a crucial role in plant health and soil ecology. These fungi enhance the plant's ability to absorb water and essential nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, from the soil. In exchange, the plant supplies the fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis.

There are two main types of mycorrhizae: arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) and ectomycorrhizae (ECM). AM fungi penetrate the root cells, forming structures called arbuscules that facilitate nutrient exchange. ECM fungi envelop the roots in a dense sheath and extend into the soil with a network of hyphae, which increase the surface area for nutrient absorption.

Mycorrhizae improve soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, enhancing aeration, and increasing water retention. This symbiosis also helps plants resist diseases, drought, and other environmental stresses. The extensive hyphal networks of mycorrhizal fungi can connect multiple plants, facilitating nutrient and water distribution within plant communities.

Moreover, mycorrhizae play a role in carbon sequestration by transferring carbon compounds from plants into the soil, thus contributing to soil fertility and mitigating climate change. Overall, mycorrhizal relationships are fundamental to plant health, soil quality, and ecosystem stability, making them indispensable for sustainable agriculture and natural ecosystems. For more info, read this article.