Complete the following by selecting the correct option for the blanks A , B and C from the options given below.
The symbiotic association formed by fungi with roots of higher plants is known as .... A....it is mainly formed by members from the genus.... B..... The fungal symbiont in these associations is responsible for absorbing......C......from the soil and passing it to the plant. It also has many other benefits like resistance to root borne pathogens tolerance to salinity and droughts , etc......D..... Seeds cannot germinate and establish without the presence of ......A .....

Options

A. A: Lichen , B: Rhizobium, C: Phosphorus, D: Cycads
B. A: Mycorrhiza , B: Glomus, C: Potassium, D: Cycads
C. A: Mycorrhiza , B: Glomus, C: Phosphorus, D: Pinus
D. A: Lichen, B: Rhizobium , C: potassium , D: Pinus

Answer

To complete the statement regarding the symbiotic association formed by fungi with the roots of higher plants, we will fill in the blanks A, B, and C with the correct terms based on the information provided.

1. **Identify the type of symbiotic association:**
The symbiotic association formed by fungi with the roots of higher plants is known as **Mycorrhiza** (A). Mycorrhizae are crucial for plant health and nutrient uptake.

2. **Determine the genus of fungi involved:**
This association is mainly formed by members from the genus **Glomus** (B). Glomus is a well-known genus of fungi that forms mycorrhizal relationships with many plant species.

3. **Identify the nutrient absorbed by the fungal symbiont:**
The fungal symbiont in these associations is responsible for absorbing **phosphorus** (C) from the soil and passing it to the plant. Phosphorus is essential for various plant functions, including energy transfer and photosynthesis.

4. **Summarize the benefits of this association:**
The mycorrhizal association not only aids in nutrient absorption but also provides resistance to root-borne pathogens and tolerance to salinity and drought.

5. **Conclude with the necessity of this association for seed germination:**
Seeds cannot germinate and establish without the presence of **mycorrhiza** (A). This indicates the critical role of mycorrhizal fungi in the early stages of plant development.

### Final Answer:
The symbiotic association formed by fungi with roots of higher plants is known as **Mycorrhiza** (A). It is mainly formed by members from the genus **Glomus** (B). The fungal symbiont in these associations is responsible for absorbing **phosphorus** (C) from the soil and passing it to the plant. Seeds cannot germinate and establish without the presence of **mycorrhiza** (A).

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