How do fungi and plants interact in a mycorrhizal relationship?

Step-by-step solution

This interaction confers benefits on both the interacting species. Lichens represent an intimate mutualistic relationship between a fungus and photosynthesising algae or cyanobacteria. Similarly, the mycorrhizae are associations between fungi and the roots of higher plants. The fungi help the plant in the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil while the plant in turn provides the fungi with energy-yielding carbohydrates. Orchids show a bewildering diversity of floral patterns many of which have evolved to