Glossary

mycorrhizal

Mycorrhizal (my-koh-RY-zul) describes the mutualistic partnership between fungi and plant roots. Fungal threads attach to — and in some cases penetrate — root cells, forming a physical connection through which the exchange occurs. Fungi cannot photosynthesize, so they depend on plants for sugars. In return, fungal threads extend far beyond the root system to gather water, phosphorus, and nitrogen — nutrients that would otherwise remain locked in forest soils. In the Santa Cruz Mountains, most native plants depend on these partnerships to thrive. Soil disturbance, compaction, and chemical use can sever them, weakening plants and slowing ecosystem recovery.

« Back to Glossary Index

New to This Topic?

Start with these foundational guides to understand the broader context behind this term.