Scientists discovered a new beneficial fungus that lives inside plant roots and helps plants grow better while protecting them from diseases. This research has important implications for sustainable agriculture: • The fungus could be used as a natural fertilizer to promote crop growth • It provides protection against plant diseases without harmful chemicals • It helps plants better tolerate salt stress, which is important for farming in challenging conditions • The fungus works together with other beneficial soil microbes rather than disrupting them • It could reduce the need for synthetic pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture