Question Detail

BIO 102 Objective Question

Question

Which type of mycorrhiza is characterized by fungal hyphae that penetrate the cell walls of plant root cells but not the cell membranes?
Options
A Ectomycorrhiza
B Arbuscular mycorrhiza
Correct Answer
C Ericoid mycorrhiza
D Orchid mycorrhiza
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Arbuscular mycorrhizae (also called endomycorrhizae) involve Glomeromycete fungi that form arbuscules which penetrate the cell walls of plant root cells but not the cell membranes. The arbuscules are the site of metabolic exchanges between fungus and host plant.

Hint

The prefix 'arbuscul-' means little tree, referring to the branched structures inside root cells.

Question Info