Fungi of the phylum basidiomycota form mycorrhizal associations with orchids, a type of flowering plant. how do these associations benefit both the fungi and the orchids?

The orchids release enzymes which break down sugar for the fungi, and  the fungi adds the fertility of the soil for orchids

Explanation:

Fungi of the phylum Basidiomycota and Orchid trees live in a symbiotic relationship with each other. It is a two way prolonged relationship in which both organisms live with each other, and they can help each other, or one of them can harm other or both can live together without giving any harm or any benefit.

In the case we are studying, fungi and orchids live in a mutualistic symbiotic relationship with each other. The mycorrhiza are thread like structures which are rooted in the roots of Orchid trees. The fungi plays an important role in nitrification of soil by producing nitrates which are very useful for healthy growth of the plant. On the other hand,Orchids break down the carbon polymers through their powerful enzymes and form simpler sugars which are easily used as a food for plants.

Hope it helps!