Mycorrhizal Associations
Mycorrhizal associations represent symbiotic resource sharing where both parties benefit - fungi gain carbohydrates, plants gain enhanced nutrient access.
Most plant species form symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi. The fungi colonize plant roots, extending fungal hyphae far into soil, dramatically increasing the surface area for nutrient absorption. Fungi provide plants with phosphorus and nitrogen from soil; plants provide fungi with carbohydrates from photosynthesis. This mutualism is so successful that mycorrhizae are found in >90% of plant species.
Business Application of Mycorrhizal Associations
Mycorrhizal associations represent symbiotic resource sharing where both parties benefit - fungi gain carbohydrates, plants gain enhanced nutrient access. This mutual investment in shared infrastructure creates efficiency gains neither party could achieve alone.