Ectomycorrhizae

Ectomycorrhizae are a type of beneficial relationship between certain fungi and the roots of many trees and shrubs. In this partnership, the fungi form a sheath around the plant roots and extend their hyphae into the surrounding soil, helping the plant absorb water and nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus more efficiently. In return, the plant supplies the fungi with sugars produced through photosynthesis. This mutualism enhances the health and growth of the host plants, especially in nutrient-poor soils, and plays a vital role in forest ecosystems by promoting tree vitality and biodiversity.