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= Functions of Ericoid Mycorrhizae =

I. Introduction

 * 1) Overview of the family Ericaceae
 * 2) Morphology of Ericaceous plants
 * 3) * Distinctive root morphology for ericoid mycorrhiza

II. Ericoid mycorrhizae interactions

 * 1) Mutualistic interaction
 * 2) Molecular phylogeny suggests a large taxonomic group of fungi associations with plants

III. Nutrient supply

 * 1) Enzymes ericoid mycorrhizae provide for plant host
 * 2) Nitrogen supply to host plants when nitrogen is scarce in acidic soils
 * 3) Mycorrhizae capacity to break down certain compounds in soil that affect nutrient uptake
 * 4) Nutrients plant provides to fungi in return
 * 5) * Photosynthesis sunlight into carbohydrates

V. Survival of Plants in Harsh Environment

 * 1) Conditions where nutrient uptake and decomposition are limited
 * 2) In acidic soils, low moisture and low temperatures all which limit plant growth and survival

VI. Protection

 * 1) Colonization of roots by ericoid mycorrhizae provides protection against parasitic fungi