Endophyte-induced physiological adjustments to improve drought tolerance in rice

Area of Science:

• Plant Science
• Microbiology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Fungal endophytes enhance plant resilience through physiological, biochemical, and molecular processes.
• Endophytes from extreme environments show potential for improving crop tolerance in water-limited conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of two fungal endophytes, Fusarium incarnatum (K23) and Fusarium equiseti (SF5), in mitigating drought stress in three rice varieties.
• To assess the impact of endophyte colonization on plant biomass, physiological and biochemical parameters, oxidative stress, and agronomic traits under drought.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and application of Fusarium incarnatum (K23) and Fusarium equiseti (SF5) to rice varieties (IR64, CR Dhan 307, Sahbhagi Dhan) under drought conditions.
• Measurement of root and shoot biomass, physiological and biochemical markers, oxidative stress indicators, and agronomic traits.
• Correlation analysis between antioxidant enzyme activities and yield components.

Main Results:

• Endophyte colonization significantly increased root and shoot biomass under drought, with SF5 generally outperforming K23.
• Physiological, biochemical parameters, and oxidative stress management were improved by endophytes across all rice varieties.
• Agronomic traits like plant height, panicle weight, and grain weight were enhanced; SF5 showed specificity for Sahbhagi Dhan, while K23 had broader efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Habitat-adapted endophytic fungi provide an effective strategy for improving rice drought tolerance and productivity.
• Endophyte inoculation offers variety-specific benefits, contributing to sustainable agriculture in water-scarce environments.
• Findings highlight the role of endophytic fungi as beneficial inoculants for enhancing crop resilience.