What is the term used to describe the symbiotic association between fungi and the roots of higher vascular plants?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Mycorrhiza represents a mutualistic symbiotic association between fungal hyphae and roots of higher plants, enhancing water and phosphorus absorption while receiving organic carbon compounds. Lichens are associations between algae and fungi, Rhizobium forms nitrogen-fixing root nodules in legumes, and Mycoplasma are cell-wall-less bacteria. Mycorrhizal associations are crucial for forest ecosystem nutrient cycling.