Mycorrhiza represents

Options

A. antagonism
B. endemism
C. symbiosis
D. parasitism

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Mycorrhiza**: Mycorrhiza refers to a symbiotic association between fungi and the roots of higher plants, particularly gymnosperms and cycads.

2. **Types of Fungi Involved**: The fungi involved in mycorrhizal associations are primarily from the groups of Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes.

3. **Mutual Benefits**: In this relationship, both organisms benefit:
- The higher plants (hosts) provide food (sugars) and shelter to the fungi through photosynthesis.
- The fungi enhance the plant's ability to absorb water and essential minerals from the soil and offer protection against pathogens.

4. **Defining Symbiosis**: Since both organisms benefit from this relationship, it is classified as symbiosis, which is a mutually beneficial interaction between different species.

5. **Eliminating Other Options**:
- **Antagonism**: This is a negative interaction where one organism harms another, which does not apply to mycorrhiza.
- **Endemism**: This term refers to species restricted to a specific area, which is unrelated to the mycorrhizal relationship.
- **Parasitism**: In this relationship, one organism benefits at the expense of the other, which is contrary to the mutual benefits seen in mycorrhiza.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct representation of mycorrhiza is that it is a symbiotic relationship (option number three).

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