Hyphae are the tubular projections of multicellular fungi that form a filamentous network (mycelium)
- Fungal hyphae release digestive enzymes in order to absorb nutrients from food sources
Certain species of fungi may form a symbiotic relationship with plants whereby both species benefit (mutualism)
- The hyphae penetrate into the plant’s root tissue in response to chemical exudates produced by both plant and fungus
- Within the cortical cells of the root, the hyphae form arbuscular projections which absorb nutrients from the plant cells
- In return, the fungus transfers minerals absorbed from the soil into the plant, so both species benefit from the interaction
Fungal Hyphae
