In some of the earliest plant fossils, there is evidence of mycorrhizal associations. Fungi may have been instrumental in plant colonization of land by:
A)colonizing areas as lichens and facilitating dispersal by terrestrial plants.
B)increasing nutrient uptake by early plant species.
C)increasing levels of organic matter in the soil.
D)releasing antibiotics to kill bacteria in the soil where plants would colonize.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mycorrhizal associations between fungi and early plants allowed for increased nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus, which was limited in early, nutrient-poor soils. This provided an advantage for plant colonization of land.

In Some of the Earliest Plant Fossils, There Is Evidence