What organisms participate in the intimate mutualistic relationship found in mycorrhiza?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Fungi and roots of higher plants
Mutualism is an interaction in which both species gain. A mycorrhiza is an association between a fungus and the roots of a higher plant. The fungus helps the root absorb nutrients such as phosphorus from the soil. The plant gives the fungus carbohydrates that provide energy.
NCERT Extract:
Population Interactions – “… (v) Mutualism: This interaction 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.”