Page 166 - The Microworld Miracle

The breaking down performed by fungus in the soil provides
minerals to nourish plants, which develop quickly and become
stronger than before. At the same time, the plant feeds this fungus
by providing it with sugar, amino acids and other important organ-

ic substances. For example, orchids that fail to enter into such a
partnership life with fungi soon die and many forest trees gradual-
ly come to the drying stage. When fungi and fungus spores are ap-
90
plied to them, they revert to normal growth. To put it another way,
fungi are essential to the life of plants, one of the most important
components of life.
The Mycorrhizae that enter the tree roots and supply them with
food also help the roots cling to rocky places. Furthermore, this fun-
gus protects the pine trees' roots from various diseases. The only

thing this talented fungus, which fixes the tree in position, protects
it from various diseases and extracts and releases phosphorus, oth-
er nutrients in the soil and water to share with the plant, receives in
return is a quantity of sugar. 91

Fungi that have surrounded
plant roots and provide food
for plants.
THE MICROWORLD MIRACLE

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