Endomycorrhizae with DIC microscope

Sections of plant roots that are colonized internally by beneficial symbiotic fungi. The blue structures are the portion of the vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae or "VAM" fungus that forms inside individual cells of the root tissue. Hyphae of the VAM fungus reach out into the soil to collect phosphorus, other nutrients and water which are transported back for use by the host plant. Most kinds of plants should be host to this form of colonization by VAM. Where VAM is present the plant is protected from root rot disease and parasitic nematodes. Most agricultural soils that have received high amounts of chemicals are deficient in VAM which means that higher rates of fertilizers and fungicides are usually required.

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