Abstract
Mycorrhizal symbiosis is a mutualistic partnership between plants and fungi that represents one of the oldest and the most widespread symbioses on earth (Redecker et al. 2000). It has been estimated that approximately 80% of vascular plant species form symbiosis with mycorrhizal fungi (Brundrett 2009).
Mycorrhizal fungi play a crucial role in water and nutrient uptake to the host plant. They also enhance host plant defense mechanisms against pathogens and facilitate their growth in environments with high levels of heavy metals.
In return, mycorrhizal plants provide carbohydrates, such as glucose and sucrose, to their symbiotic partners (Smith and Read 2008).