Presence of arbuscular mycorrhizae and native dark septate fungi in yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius) in Catamarca, Argentina

Short Communication

Di Barbaro M G1, Andrada H E1,

Abstract

Mycorrhizae are compatible and intimate symbioses between plant roots and some soil fungi. The term mycorrhiza describes the set or "dual organ" made up of the absorption structures of plants and fungal symbionts that colonize them in a characteristic way and define a structural and metabolic integration typical of the symbiosis. That is, it is the union between different fungi and the roots of some plants, where both participants in this association obtain benefits. Fundamentally, the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates, proteins and lipids, necessary for its development, and in turn, the fungus allows the plant a better uptake of nutrients from the soil, both macronutrients and micronutrients, especially those few mobile ones, like phosphorus and water. Therefore, it improves the quality of the crop.

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