When pathogenic fungi are found growing on the roots of grape vines, grape farmers sometimes respond by covering the ground around their vines with plastic sheeting and pumping a gaseous fungicide into the soil. The most important concern of grape farmers who engage in this practice should be that the ________.
A) fungicide might also kill the native yeasts residing on the surfaces of the grapes
B) lichens growing on the vines' branches are not harmed
C) fungicide might also kill mycorrhizae
D) sheeting is transparent so that photosynthesis can continue

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mycorrhizae form a mutually beneficial relationship with grape vines where they provide the plant with nutrients and in return receive sugars. If the fungicide also kills off these beneficial fungi, it may have a negative impact on the health and growth of the grape vines. A and B are not the most important concern, while D is not relevant to the issue at hand.

When Pathogenic Fungi Are Found Growing on the Roots of Grape