Summary
This study characterised the endophytic fungal communities associated with healthy rice and maize plants through culture-dependent isolation methods, yielding 123 distinct fungal isolates from various plant tissues. The dominant endophytes, particularly from the genus Fusarium, were evaluated for their biocontrol properties against key phytopathogens affecting both crops. The authors propose these endophytic fungi represent a promising biological resource for addressing disease management gaps in agricultural practice.
UK applicability
Whilst the study focuses on tropical crops (rice and maize) in Indian growing conditions, the endophytic biocontrol approach may have limited direct applicability to UK cereal production, which operates under different climatic and disease pressures. However, the methodology for isolating and screening plant-associated fungi for biocontrol traits could inform UK research into native endophyte-based disease management in wheat and barley.
Key measures
Endophytic fungal isolation rates, taxonomic identification, antagonistic activity against Pythium ultimum, Sclerotium oryzae, Rhizoctonia solani, and Pyricularia oryzae
Outcomes reported
The study isolated and characterised 123 endophytic fungi from rice and maize tissues, identifying dominant fungal genera and evaluating their biocontrol efficacy against major phytopathogens. The work assessed the potential of these endophytes as biological resource agents for agricultural disease management.
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