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Multiple Choice
You can buy mycorrhizal fungus to add to soil when you plant trees and other plants. Why would you want to do this?
A
Mycorrhizal fungi prey on nematodes in the soil.
B
Mycorrhizal fungi produce carbohydrates needed by plants.
C
Mycorrhizal fungi prevent transposons from accumulating in plant cells.
D
Mycorrhizal fungi live in plant leaves and produce toxins that discourage herbivores.
E
Mycorrhizal fungi assist plants in the absorption of essential nutrients.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of mycorrhizal fungi: Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing the plant's ability to absorb water and essential nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, from the soil.
Evaluate the options given: Consider each statement about mycorrhizal fungi and determine if it aligns with their known biological function.
Option analysis: Mycorrhizal fungi do not prey on nematodes, produce carbohydrates, prevent transposons, or live in leaves to produce toxins. These statements do not describe the primary function of mycorrhizal fungi.
Identify the correct function: The primary benefit of mycorrhizal fungi is their ability to assist plants in the absorption of essential nutrients, which is crucial for plant growth and health.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is that mycorrhizal fungi assist plants in the absorption of essential nutrients, which is why they are added to soil when planting trees and other plants.