Mycorrhiza

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option c

Explanation
Mycorrhiza refers to the symbiotic association between fungi and plant roots. This relationship benefits both organisms, as the fungus helps the plant by increasing nutrient and water absorption, while the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates.In the context of bioremediation, mycorrhizae can help in the absorption and uptake of heavy metals from contaminated soils. Certain types of mycorrhizal fungi are known to enhance the ability of plants to tolerate and accumulate heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic, effectively reducing the concentration of these harmful substances in the soil.

Why the other options are not correct:
(a) It fixes atmospheric nitrogen in the soil: While some fungi in other types of symbiotic relationships (like Rhizobium with legumes) fix nitrogen, mycorrhizal fungi primarily help in nutrient absorption but do not fix nitrogen.
(b) It degrades hydrocarbons in contaminated water: Mycorrhizal fungi do not specifically degrade hydrocarbons. This role is usually associated with other microorganisms used in bioremediation, like bacteria.
(d) It converts organic waste into methane: Mycorrhizae do not convert organic waste into methane. Methane production is typically associated with anaerobic microorganisms, such as methanogens, not mycorrhizal fungi.