Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution
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Correct Answer: Option (D) — Mycorrhiza
Concept & Option Breakdown
Standard Reference Verified- Mycorrhiza: A symbiotic mutualism between soil fungi and the roots of higher vascular plants. The fungal hyphae vastly increase root surface area to absorb water and mineral nutrients (particularly phosphorus), while the plant provides carbohydrates to the fungus.
- Lichen: Symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae/cyanobacteria.
- Coralloid root: Specialized roots in Cycas associated with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria.
Break down the word: 'myco-' = fungus, '-rhiza' = root. Mycorrhiza literally means 'fungus-root'.
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