How is the mycorrhizal association helpful in absorption of water and minerals in plants?

Explanation

Mycorrhiza shows the symbiotic assciation of a fungus with root system e.g., in Pinus roots. Fungal hyphae show superficial outgrowth around roots or they penetrate into root cells i.e., hyphae may behave as ectomycorrhiza or endomycorrhiza. These hyphae bear large surface area to facilitate absorption of water and mineral ions from soil. In turn roots provide sugars and nitrogen containing compounds to mycorrhiza.