Question

VAM is a
A) Mycorrhiza
B) Succulent
C) Epiphyte
D) Mesophyte

Answer 1

Hint: VAM is a symbiotic relationship between certain ascomycetous fungi and angiosperm root. This relationship benefits the plant by providing phosphorus from the soil.

Complete Answer:
- VAM stands for Vascular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza. It is the symbiotic relationship in which fungi (mycorrhiza) penetrates in the cortical cells of the roots of the angiospermic plants.
- This kind of relationship is found in most of the plants of the vascular family. They form a unique structure called the arbuscules. This mycorrhiza helps the plant absorb nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen, sulphur from the soil.
- VAM provides strength to the plant to fight against disease germs and resist unfavourable climatic conditions.
1) Succulents- These are the plants with thick and fleshy stems or leaves which can store moisture so as to survive arid conditions.
2) Epiphyte- These are the plants which grow on the surface of the plants but derive nutrients and moisture from air. They are autotrophs.
3) Mesophytes- These are the plants which are able to survive under moderate conditions of water.

Thus the correct answer is A. VAM is a mycorrhiza.

Note: A symbiotic relationship is a mutual association between two organisms. In such a relationship, both the organisms are benefited in terms of shelter and nutrients. In VAM, the mycorrhiza provides the plant with nutrients. In return the roots of the plant provide shelter to the fungi. Another example of such relationship is Rhizobium bacteria present in the root nodules of the leguminous plants.