Glomeromycota

Definition

Glomeromycota is a phylum of fungi that forms symbiotic relationships with the roots of most terrestrial plants through structures called arbuscular mycorrhizae. This relationship enhances nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus, for the plants while providing carbohydrates for the fungi, playing a crucial role in plant health and soil ecology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glomeromycota fungi are obligate symbionts, meaning they cannot live independently and rely entirely on their association with plant roots for survival.
2. They play a vital role in improving soil structure and fertility, contributing to enhanced plant growth and resilience against environmental stress.
3. Glomeromycota species have been found to increase plant resistance to pathogens, thereby promoting overall plant health.
4. These fungi contribute to carbon cycling in ecosystems by transferring carbon from plants back into the soil, which helps maintain soil health.
5. Most crops and wild plants form associations with Glomeromycota, making them essential for agriculture and natural ecosystems.

Review Questions

• How do Glomeromycota fungi enhance nutrient uptake in plants?
  • Glomeromycota fungi enhance nutrient uptake in plants primarily through their formation of arbuscular mycorrhizae, which increases the surface area of roots. This allows for more efficient absorption of nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen from the soil. The relationship benefits both parties; while the plant provides carbohydrates to the fungi, the fungi help the plant access nutrients that would otherwise be unavailable.
• Discuss the significance of arbuscules in the mutualistic relationship between Glomeromycota and plants.
  • Arbuscules are critical structures formed by Glomeromycota within the root cells of plants that facilitate nutrient exchange. They increase the contact area between fungal hyphae and plant cells, allowing for effective transfer of nutrients such as phosphorus from the fungus to the plant. This specialized structure exemplifies how mutualism operates at a cellular level, ensuring both organisms benefit from their relationship.
• Evaluate the ecological impact of Glomeromycota on terrestrial ecosystems and agriculture.
  • The ecological impact of Glomeromycota is profound, as these fungi significantly influence soil health and plant productivity. By forming symbiotic relationships with a vast majority of terrestrial plants, they enhance nutrient availability and improve drought resistance. In agriculture, their role is critical for crop yield and resilience against diseases. As they also contribute to carbon cycling and soil structure improvement, their presence is vital for maintaining healthy ecosystems that can support diverse plant life.

Related terms

Mycorrhizae: Mycorrhizae are the symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots, enhancing nutrient absorption and water uptake for plants.

Arbuscules: Arbuscules are specialized structures formed by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi within plant root cells, facilitating nutrient exchange between the fungus and the plant.

Endomycorrhizae:

Endomycorrhizae refer to mycorrhizal fungi that penetrate the root cells of their host plants, specifically associated with Glomeromycota.