A symbiotic association between fungi and plant roots where the fungus helps the plant absorb water and nutrients while receiving carbohydrates from the plant. This partnership is essential for most terrestrial plants.
From Greek 'mykes' meaning 'fungus' and 'rhiza' meaning 'root.' The term was coined in 1885 by German botanist Albert Bernhard Frank when he discovered this widespread symbiotic relationship in forest soils.
Mycorrhizae are nature's underground internet - these fungal networks connect forest plants in a 'wood wide web' that can span acres, allowing trees to share nutrients, water, and even warning signals about insect attacks! Some fungi partner with over 90% of plant species, making this one of Earth's most successful biological partnerships.
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