The Question is from neet-botany biological-classification fungi, and it was created by the author B VENKAT

Question

The symbiotic association between a fungus and the roots of a higher plant is known as mycorrhiza.  Which of the following is NOT a benefit conferred by the fungus to the plant in this association?

B VENKAT · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: D
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
	**Primary Concept**: Mycorrhizae and their benefits to plants
	**Related Topics**: Symbiotic relationships, fungal ecology, plant nutrition
	**Prerequisites**: Understanding of symbiotic relationships and basic plant biology.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
	The question asks which benefit is NOT conferred by the fungus to the plant in a mycorrhizal association.
	Options: Increased water/mineral absorption, protection against soil pathogens, drought/salinity tolerance, nitrogen fixation.
**Method & Steps**:
	1. Analyze each option to determine its validity in the context of mycorrhizal associations.
		Reasoning: Mycorrhizae are mutually beneficial relationships. The fungus gains carbohydrates from the plant, while the plant receives benefits from the fungus's extensive hyphae network.
	2. Evaluate each option's accuracy.
		Increased water and mineral absorption: Mycorrhizal fungi significantly increase the surface area for water and nutrient uptake by the plant roots. This is a well-established benefit.
		Protection against soil pathogens: The fungal hyphae can act as a physical barrier, protecting the roots from pathogens. This is also a known benefit.
		Enhanced tolerance to drought and salinity: The increased access to water and nutrients provided by mycorrhizae helps plants cope better with drought and salinity stress.
		Nitrogen fixation: Mycorrhizal fungi themselves do not fix atmospheric nitrogen. Nitrogen fixation is primarily carried out by certain bacteria, often in association with legumes (through root nodules).
	3. Identify the incorrect option.
		Result: Nitrogen fixation is not a benefit conferred by mycorrhizal fungi to the plant.
		Verification:  The other three options are all well-documented benefits of mycorrhizal associations.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
A ✓: Increased absorption of water and minerals – This is a key benefit of mycorrhizae.
B :x: Protection against certain soil pathogens – Mycorrhizal fungi offer this protection.
C :x: Enhanced tolerance to drought and salinity – This is a consequence of improved water and nutrient uptake.
D :x: Nitrogen fixation from the atmosphere – This is NOT a function of mycorrhizal fungi.
## LEARNING AIDS
	**Common Mistakes**:
		1. Confusing mycorrhizal fungi with nitrogen-fixing bacteria:  Remember that these are distinct symbiotic relationships.
		2. Assuming all symbiotic relationships involve the same benefits:  The benefits of symbiosis vary depending on the organisms involved.
	**Quick Tips**:
		1. Focus on the specific role of mycorrhizal fungi in plant nutrition and protection.
		2. Remember that nitrogen fixation is a specialized process typically associated with rhizobia bacteria.

B VENKAT · Answer

Increased absorption of water and minerals

B VENKAT · Answer

Protection against certain soil pathogens

B VENKAT · Answer

Enhanced tolerance to drought and salinity

B VENKAT · Answer

The correct Option is "Nitrogen fixation from the atmosphere"

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