Foliar endophytic fungi are a group of fungi that reside within the tissues of healthy leaves of plants without causing any apparent disease symptoms. They form a symbiotic relationship with the plant, where they colonize the internal spaces of the leaf tissues without triggering any apparent negative effects. They derive benefits from the host plant, such as protection, nutrient availability, and enhanced tolerance to environmental stresses, while the plant may benefit from improved growth and defense mechanisms. Foliar endophytic fungi initially colonize the outer tissues of the leaves, such as the epidermis and the mesophyll. They then penetrate the leaf through natural openings or by directly penetrating the cell walls. Once inside, they proliferate and colonize the intercellular spaces. Foliar endophytic fungi have a significant role in plant ecology. They can enhance plant growth and fitness by promoting nutrient uptake, modulating plant hormone levels, and facilitating stress tolerance. They can also contribute to the defense mechanisms of plants by producing bioactive compounds that deter herbivores and pathogens. Foliar endophytic fungi are known to produce a wide array of secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, saponins, and antimicrobial compounds. These metabolites can have potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry. Some studies suggest that endophytic foliar fungi can induce genetic and phenotypic changes in host plants despite being asymptomatic in nature. Moreover, another alteration in plant physiology has also been observed. Additionally, studies on foliar endophytic fungi have gained considerable attention due to their potential agricultural and biotechnological applications. Researchers are investigating their role in improving crop productivity, enhancing stress tolerance, and discovering novel bioactive compounds. This chapter focuses on the synergistic and ecological interactions of foliar endophytic fungi as well as their pharmacological and industrial usage.

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Foliar Endophytic Fungi: Interactions and Importance

  • Rupshikha Nath,
  • Jayeeta Mitra,
  • Sibashish Kityania,
  • Rajat Nath,
  • Deepa Nath,
  • Anupam Das Talukdar

摘要

Foliar endophytic fungi are a group of fungi that reside within the tissues of healthy leaves of plants without causing any apparent disease symptoms. They form a symbiotic relationship with the plant, where they colonize the internal spaces of the leaf tissues without triggering any apparent negative effects. They derive benefits from the host plant, such as protection, nutrient availability, and enhanced tolerance to environmental stresses, while the plant may benefit from improved growth and defense mechanisms. Foliar endophytic fungi initially colonize the outer tissues of the leaves, such as the epidermis and the mesophyll. They then penetrate the leaf through natural openings or by directly penetrating the cell walls. Once inside, they proliferate and colonize the intercellular spaces. Foliar endophytic fungi have a significant role in plant ecology. They can enhance plant growth and fitness by promoting nutrient uptake, modulating plant hormone levels, and facilitating stress tolerance. They can also contribute to the defense mechanisms of plants by producing bioactive compounds that deter herbivores and pathogens. Foliar endophytic fungi are known to produce a wide array of secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, saponins, and antimicrobial compounds. These metabolites can have potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry. Some studies suggest that endophytic foliar fungi can induce genetic and phenotypic changes in host plants despite being asymptomatic in nature. Moreover, another alteration in plant physiology has also been observed. Additionally, studies on foliar endophytic fungi have gained considerable attention due to their potential agricultural and biotechnological applications. Researchers are investigating their role in improving crop productivity, enhancing stress tolerance, and discovering novel bioactive compounds. This chapter focuses on the synergistic and ecological interactions of foliar endophytic fungi as well as their pharmacological and industrial usage.