How do fungi affect plants?
Hyphae of some fungi invade plant leaves (or other body parts). Once inside, the hyphae form a mycelium. Some hyphae produce haustoria. These are branching projections that absorbstealnutrients from plant cells. The haustoria dont actually break through the membranes surrounding the cells. Instead, they simply press into the cells, with the membrane fitting them like a glove. Picture yourself pushing your fingers (the haustoria) into a large balloon (the cell) without popping it. Nutrients pass through the plant cells membrane and the membrane of the haustorium and support the growth of the fungus. By robbing the plant of nutrients, pathogenic fungi weaken the plants and reduce crop yield.
