Evolutionary
History
History
How long ago did the symbiotic relationship between endophytic fungi and plants first evolve?
The symbiotic relationship between endophytic fungi and plants is believed to have evolved over 500 million years ago.
What are endophytic fungi?
These fungi live inside plant tissues without causing apparent harm and often form symbiotic relationships with their plant host.
What abiotic stresses do endophytic fungi help plants cope with?
They help cope with drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures.
What is hyphae?
The long, branching, filamentous structures that make up the body of a fungus.
What evidence supports the evolutionary history of endophytic fungi?
Fossil records, molecular phylogenetics, and genomic analyses are types of evidence supporting this aspect of endophytic fungi.
What benefits do endophytic fungi provide?
They provide benefits such as enhanced nutrient acquisition, growth promotion, and increased resistance to pathogens.
Which plants do Piriformospora indica form a symbiotic relationship with?
What is mycelium?
Network of hyphae that makes up the vegetative part of the fungus. Can spread extensively, allowing the fungus to colonize plant tissues or other large areas.
What are haustoria?
Specialized structures that facilitate the exchange of nutrients and signaling molecules with the host plant.
Where are endophytic fungi found in the environment?
They are found in various ecosystems, like forests, grasslands, deserts, wetlands, and in agriculture.
How do endophytic fungi act as natural biocontrol agents?
They protect plants from pests and diseases.
What are spores for?
Reproduction and colonization.
How did endophytic fungi contribute to the colonization of land by plants?
They helped plants adapt to terrestrial environments by facilitating nutrient uptake and coping with environmental stresses.
What plant organs can endophytic fungi be found in?
Endophytic fungi can be found in various plant organs, including roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds.
What do plants associated with endophytic fungi often exhibit under climate stress?
Improved growth and resilience.
What are secondary metabolites?
Compounds to deter herbivores and pathogens, enhancing plant defense mechanisms.