Ectomycorrhizae on tree roots

Example of Ectomycorrhizae on tree roots. This is a highly desirable colonization of tree and shrub roots that causes the very shape of the root branching pattern to change. Roots in this condition are very efficient at absorbing phosphorus, other nutrients and water. Also where this symbiotic colonization is present the roots are protected from root rot fungi and parsitic nematodes. Trees and landscape shrubs are often planted into a site where the symbiotic fungus is lacking, causing the plants to lack vigor and often eventually die.

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