Important mycorrhizal-obligate plants in western North America are sagebrush, bitterbrush, and some native bunchgrasses. Mycorrhizae are particularly important in assisting the host plant with the uptake of phosphorus and nitrogen, two nutrients vital to plant growth. Mycorrhizae actually increase the surface area associated with the plant root, which allows the plant to reach nutrients and water that might not be available otherwise. Put simply, mycorrhizae extends the plant s reach, allowing it to get to more of what it needs to survive. That makes the plant stronger, especially during drought periods.
Stronger individuals means that the community is more resilient to disturbance.
Some mycorrhizae may even protect their host plant against unwanted pathogens. Allen, M.F. 1991. The ecology of mycorrhizae. The soil biology primer, soil fungi. USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Soil Quality Institute.