Mycorrhizae are symbiotic (mutualistic) associations between certain fungi and the roots of higher plants. They are primarily useful because their extensive network of thread-like structures, called hyphae, extends far beyond the reach of the plant's own root system. This significantly increases the surface area for the absorption of water and essential minerals, particularly phosphorus, which is often immobile and difficult for roots to reach alone. In return, the plant provides the fungi with carbohydrates (sugars) produced through photosynthesis.

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