Question

If symbiotic fungi are absent from the soil, what impact do you think this would have on plant growth?

Short answer

If symbiotic fungi are absent from the soil then plants cannot absorb adequate nutrients, water, and minerals which stunts their growth.

Step-by-step solution

Step1. Introduction 

Symbiosis is the interaction between two dissimilar organisms living in close physical association. Mycorrhizae are symbiotic relationships that form between fungi and plants.

Step2. Explanation 

The fungi colonize the root system of a host plant, providing increased water and nutrient absorption capabilities while the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates formed from photosynthesis.

Without mycorrhiza, plants cannot absorb adequate nutrients, water, and minerals which stunts their growth.