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Establishing Fungal Entomopathogens as Endophytes: Towards Endophytic Biological Control
Published on: April 11, 2013
Fungal endophytes: diversity and functional roles
R J Rodriguez1,2, J F White3, A E Arnold4
1US Geological Survey, Seattle, WA, USA.
The New Phytologist
|February 25, 2009
Summary
Fungal endophytes impact plant communities, but their ecological roles are unclear. New research reveals nonclavicipitaceous (NC) endophytes comprise three functional groups, improving our understanding of plant-fungi interactions.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Mycology
- Ecology
Background:
- Plants in natural ecosystems host diverse fungal endophytes.
- These fungi significantly influence plant fitness through stress tolerance and resource allocation.
- The ecological significance of fungal endophytes remains poorly understood despite extensive research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the classification of fungal endophytes.
- To define functional groups within nonclavicipitaceous (NC) endophytes.
- To contrast the ecological roles of clavicipitaceous (C) and NC-endophytes.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic and life history trait analysis.
- Assessment of host colonization and transmission patterns.
- Evaluation of in planta biodiversity and host fitness benefits.
Main Results:
- NC-endophytes were classified into three distinct functional groups.
- These groups differ in host colonization, transmission, and fitness benefits.
- A framework was established to contrast C- and NC-endophyte life histories and functions.
Conclusions:
- The functional classification of NC-endophytes provides new insights into their ecological roles.
- Understanding these functional groups is crucial for characterizing endophyte impacts on plant ecophysiology.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions between plants and fungal endophytes.
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