Question

Mycorrhizae are associations formed by fungi that grow on the roots of trees. These fungi penetrate into the roots of the trees. The trees produce energy through photosynthesis and share it with the fungi. The fungi act as decomposers, breaking down dead organic matter to provide nutrients for the trees to grow. What kind of a relationship is exhibited in this example? The fungi share a mutualistic association with the trees. The fungi are a parasite for trees. The fungi share a commensal association with the trees. The fungi are predators for the trees.

Answer 1

Answer: The fungi share a mutualistic association with the trees.

Mutualism is a relationship among two species, in which two species lives in close association with each other. In this relationship both the species are benefited.  

The given situation, is an example of mutualistic association of the fungal species with the tree. This is because of the fact that the fungal species provides trees with nutrients after the process of decomposition, that are necessary for the growth of the trees. In return the fungal species obtains carbohydrates produced by photosynthesis from the roots of the trees. Therefore, both the species are benefited hence, it is a mutualistic association.