Mycorrhizal biotechnology has been used in rehabilitating degraded sites because mycorrhiza enables the plants to 1. resist drought and increase absorptive area 2. tolerate extremes of pH 3. resist disease infestation Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

1. Mycorrhiza represents a symbiotic association between fungi and the roots of vascular plants. This association is often mutualistic. 2. Statement 1 is correct. The fungal hyphae associated with the plant roots extend far into the soil, creating a vast network. This network significantly increases the effective surface area for water and nutrient absorption (absorptive area) compared to roots alone. Enhanced water uptake helps the plants to resist drought conditions, which is particularly beneficial in degraded sites. 3. Statement 2 is correct. Mycorrhizal fungi can help plants tolerate adverse soil conditions, including extremes of pH. They can improve nutrient availability even in soils with unfavorable pH and sometimes help mitigate metal toxicity associated with low pH. 4. Statement 3 is correct. The presence of mycorrhizal fungi can enhance the host plant's resistance to soil-borne pathogens and disease infestation. This can occur through various mechanisms, including competition with pathogens, production of antibiotics, or enhancing the plant's own defense responses. 5. Therefore, all three stated benefits contribute to the use of mycorrhizal biotechnology in rehabilitating degraded sites.