Existing comment:
What are mycorrhizal fungi?
Mycorrhizal fungi are species of fungus that have a close, interdependent relationship with plant roots. Orchids in particular depend on these fungi for nutrients -- especially the dust-like orchid seeds that need energy to sprout, and the young plants that can't yet support themselves.
By knowing which orchids use which species of mycorrhizal fungi, conservationists have a better chance of cultivating orchids in labs and understanding their ecological needs. |