The Common Descent Podcast Episode 201 - Fungi and Plants
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Sep 29, 2024 Aly Baumgartner, a paleobotanist focused on plant-fungi interactions, dives into the fascinating relationships between fungi and plants. She discusses how these organisms collaborate and compete throughout evolutionary history, shaping ecosystems globally. The conversation covers vital roles like mycorrhizae in nutrient exchange, the complex networks of mycelial communication, and even the intriguing phenomenon of myco-heterotrophy in certain plants. This lively discussion is packed with insights into the delicate balance of nature and the hidden world beneath our feet.
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Mycorrhizae's Importance
- Mycorrhizae, a mutualistic relationship between fungi and plant roots, plays a crucial role in plant nutrition and soil biology.
- Fungi receive carbohydrates from plants and provide water and nutrients, especially phosphorus, in return.
Hyphae and Nutrient Exchange
- Fungal hyphae's fine structure allows them to penetrate smaller soil spaces than roots, increasing nutrient absorption efficiency.
- Plants share 15-30% of photosynthetic products with fungi, receiving 80-86% of phosphorus and nitrogen.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizae
- Arbuscular mycorrhizae (AMF) are the most common type, present in ~80% of vascular plant families.
- AMF penetrate host cell walls, forming arbuscles and sometimes vesicles, integrating into plant structure.