Mycorrhizae assist plants by

A) taking up and reducing atmospheric nitrogen.
B) improving the extraction of water and minerals from the soil.
C) storing food for the plant in the fungal bodies.
D) increasing vegetative reproduction.
E) acquiring oxygen for cellular respiration in root tissues.

Mycorrhizae form a symbiotic relationship with plants, in which the fungal hyphae extend into the soil, increasing the surface area through which the plant can absorb water and minerals. In exchange, the fungi receive carbohydrates and other organic compounds from the plant. Mycorrhizae do not take up atmospheric nitrogen, store food for the plant, or increase vegetative reproduction. While mycorrhizae may acquire oxygen for respiration in the root tissues, this is not one of their main functions.