Question

Roots in some gymnosperms have fungal or algal association. Give examples, their names and role in the plants.

Answer 1

An example of roots in gymnosperms having fungal association is Pinus.

An example of roots in gymnosperms having algal association is Cycas.

• Roots of the Pinus associate with the fungus to form mycorrhiza. This association is a symbiotic one where the fungus helps the roots of the Pinus to obtain water and nutrients from the soil. The Pinus in return provides nutrition to the fungus.
• The Coralloid roots present in Cycas are associated with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria. They help in fixing Nitrogen from the atmosphere.

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Answer 2

Explanation:

Pinus has fungal association to form mycorrhiza which helps in absorption of water and minerals. Cycas has cyanobacteria in its roots which forms coralloid roots and helps in nitrogen fixation.