MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Morphological and molecular identification of endophytic fungi from roots of epiphyte orchid Aerides odorata Lour in Sabah

Summary

Scientists studied fungi living inside the roots of a rare fragrant orchid called Aerides odorata. Using advanced microscopy and DNA analysis, they identified seven different types of fungi that help the orchid absorb nutrients and grow. These fungi form special structures called pelotons inside the plant’s root cells. This research helps scientists understand how to better grow and protect endangered orchids.

Background

Aerides odorata is an endangered epiphytic orchid valued for its beauty, fragrance, and medicinal uses. Orchids depend on mycorrhizal fungi for germination and development due to their small seeds lacking endosperm. Identifying beneficial endophytic fungi is crucial for improving tissue culture success and transplantation into natural habitats.

Objective

This study aimed to identify and characterize endophytic mycorrhizal fungi associated with the roots of the endangered epiphyte A. odorata. The research combined morphological and molecular identification techniques to provide baseline data for orchid conservation strategies.

Results

Seven fungal genera were isolated and identified: Fusarium spp., Clonostachys sp., Biscogniauxia sp., Daldania sp., Trichoderma sp., Murinectria sp., and Xylaria sp. Fungi were found tightly packed in cortical cells forming pelotons, with growth rates ranging from 2.4 to 8.83 mm/day. FESEM analysis revealed colonization primarily in the cortex region, with no colonization in the endodermis.

Conclusion

The study successfully identified diverse endophytic fungal communities in A. odorata roots, demonstrating variability in growth patterns and colonization behavior. These findings provide valuable baseline data for future studies on mycorrhizal fungi functional roles in orchid conservation strategies and tissue culture protocols.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41028756, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-07189-x
Scroll to Top