What is an endophyte?

endophyte is an organism that lives inside the plant; The term literally means "inside the plant". Some are parasitic in nature and use plants as a nutrient or energy supply, while others form a relationship with their hosts and perform a function that gives the advantage of the host plant. For example, endophyte can eliminate chemical compounds that discourage other plants and eliminate the competition of resources for the host plant. Smaller organisms live inside larger in different environments, from the depths of the oceans to the rocks in the highest mountains. A very well known example of endosymbiosis is a lichen. The lichen is actually composed of two different organisms: a sponge and endosymbiote such as algae or cyanobacterium.

In the case of endophytes, the most famous is the probability of fescue grass. A corner is colonized by mushrooms that seem to strengthen, more durable and able to withstand the grass. Not only that, but farm animals tend to give priority to the povel with the endophyte, Suggesting that the fungus lends another nutritional value or taste that makes colonized grass attractive animals. Many studies have been carried out to explore how the pose with mushrooms grows, and to determine the difference between colonized and uninfected feske.

Scientists are always interested in identifying new endophytes and learning about their effects on the plants in which they live. In the case of relationships, endophytes can be a very valuable tool for survival for plants colonized with them, because the plants organism benefits colonization. The species that acts as an endophyte can move in the population of plants in various pillars, depending on the plant and the body concerned.

bacteria and fungi are the most common endophytes. Both are small enough to live comfortably inside the host plant, and both are also known for their adaptability and readiness to use the situations whoRé can be beneficial. Mushrooms and bacteria can also produce a number of secretions that may include toxins and beneficial compounds. The establishment of a mutual relationship is beneficial for both species, which in the long run increases their chances of survival by ensuring that the endophyte and the colonized plant are able to survive in different environments.