Plants growing in oligotrophic forest soils usually have

Options

A. Mycorrhiza
B. Slow growth
C. Reduced growth
D. All of the above.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understand Oligotrophic Soils**: Oligotrophic soils are characterized by low nutrient availability. They typically have limited organic matter and low levels of essential nutrients required for plant growth.

2. **Identify Plant Adaptations**: Plants that grow in oligotrophic environments have developed specific adaptations to cope with the nutrient scarcity. These adaptations help them maximize nutrient uptake from the soil.

3. **Consider the Options**: The question provides four options:
- A) Mycorrhiza
- B) Slow growth
- C) Reduced growth
- D) All of the above

4. **Evaluate Mycorrhiza**: Mycorrhiza refers to a symbiotic association between fungi and plant roots. This relationship enhances the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients (especially phosphorus) from the soil, which is crucial in nutrient-poor environments like oligotrophic soils.

5. **Assess Slow and Reduced Growth**: While it is true that plants in oligotrophic soils may exhibit slow or reduced growth due to nutrient limitations, the question specifically asks about the typical characteristics of plants in these soils. The presence of mycorrhiza is a significant adaptation that helps mitigate these growth limitations.

6. **Select the Best Answer**: Given that mycorrhiza is a key adaptation for nutrient uptake in oligotrophic soils, the best answer to the question is option A) Mycorrhiza.

**Final Answer**: A) Mycorrhiza

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