Read the passage and answer the following questions:

Mutualism is an interaction that benefits both species involved. One example of mutualism is the symbiotic relationship between lichens and fungi. Lichens consist of a fungus and photosynthetic algae or cyanobacteria, and they rely on each other for survival. The fungus provides a protected environment and absorbs water and nutrients, while the photosynthetic partner conducts photosynthesis and produces energy-rich carbohydrates that benefit both organisms.Another example is mycorrhizae, where fungi form associations with the roots of higher plants. The fungi assist the plants in absorbing essential nutrients from the soil, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, in exchange for receiving energy-yielding carbohydrates produced by the plants through photosynthesis.In plant-animal relationships, mutualism is evident in the process of pollination and seed dispersal. Plants rely on animals, such as bees, butterflies, and birds, to transfer pollen between flowers, facilitating reproduction. In return, plants offer rewards to the pollinators, such as pollen and nectar, which serve as a source of food for the animals. Similarly, when animals consume fruits and disperse seeds through their excretion or by carrying them to new locations, they benefit from the nutritional value of the fruits, while the plants benefit from the dispersal of their seeds.Not all mutualistic interactions involve direct rewards. Some orchids, like the Mediterranean orchid Ophrys, employ "sexual deceit" to achieve pollination. The flower mimics the appearance and scent of a female bee, attracting male bees that attempt to mate with the flower. During this process, the bee gets covered in pollen, and when it visits another flower, it transfers the pollen, facilitating pollination.

How do mycorrhizae benefit plants?

By aiding in the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil

The correct answer is Option (2) - By aiding in the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil

Mutualism confers benefits on both the interacting species. Lichens represent an intimate mutualistic relationship between a fungus and photosynthesising algae or cyanobacteria. Similarly, the mycorrhizae are associations between fungi and the roots of higher plants. The fungi help the plant in the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil while the plant in turn provides the fungi with energy-yielding carbohydrates.