These fungi penetrate the cells of the root without harming the plant. From the root, the hyphae extend like a network of silk threads through the bulk soil where they absorb water and mineral nutrients, and glue and tie soil particles into more erosion-resistant aggregates. VAM fungi can be considered a highly effective transport system, like a pipeline, between the soil and the plant, moving water and nutrients to the plant in exchange for the carbon-rich products of plant photosynthesis. Once plant roots are colonized by VAM fungi, their physiology and biochemistry change. Plants colonized by VAM fungi have higher rates of photosynthesis, better water use efficiency, and move more and different kinds of carbon compounds to the roots.
Nitrifying bacteria convert ammonia to nitrate, which is easier for the plant to absorb.
The rhizosphere is a partnership between the plant, soil and soil organisms. Plants provide the carbon and food source for soil organisms that bind the soil particles into aggregates and recycle soil nutrients, and soil provides the habitat, water, and mineral nutrients for both soil organisms and plants. Any factor or soil management technique that changes the amount and quality of carbon going into the soil as either residue or root exudates will effect change in the soil biological community. Change which ultimately has consequences for plant growth. Once again, putting emphasis on the interconnectedness between all farming practices and the soil.