What is the Difference Between Ectomycorrhizae and Endomycorrhizae?

Ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae are two types of symbiotic relationships between fungi and the roots of higher plants. The main differences between them are:

1. Penetration: Ectomycorrhizae do not penetrate deep into the plant (the cortical cells), while endomycorrhizae penetrate deeper into the cortical cells.
2. Fungal Partners: Ectomycorrhizae are formed between fungi from the Basidiomycota and Ascomycota, while endomycorrhizae are formed between fungi from the Glomeromycota.
3. Host Plants: Ectomycorrhizae are commonly found in the roots of trees such as pine, spruce, and oak, while endomycorrhizae are commonly found in the roots of crops such as maize, wheat, and soybeans.
4. Structures: Ectomycorrhizae form a Hartig Net and a hyphae mantle around the plant root, while endomycorrhizae form arbuscules and vesicles at the contact site between the fungal hyphae and plant root.
5. Prevalence: Endomycorrhizae are more common than ectomycorrhizae and can occur in the vast majority of plants.

Mycorrhizal symbiosis offers advantages for both the fungi and the plants, such as improved water and nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and protection from invading microbes.

Comparative Table: Ectomycorrhizae vs Endomycorrhizae

Ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae are two types of symbiotic relationships between fungi and the roots of higher plants. Here is a table summarizing the differences between them:

Ectomycorrhizae are formed between fungi from the Basidiomycota and Ascomycota and are commonly found in the roots of trees such as pine, spruce, and oak. On the other hand, endomycorrhizae are formed between fungi from the Glomeromycota and are commonly found in the roots of crops such as maize, wheat, and soybeans.