Research Keyword: Endophytes

Tackling Conifer Needle Cast and Ash Dieback with Host-Derived Microbial Antagonists Exhibiting Plant Growth-Promoting Traits

Scientists discovered beneficial bacteria living on ash and pine trees that can fight two major forest diseases: ash dieback and needle cast. These bacteria not only kill the harmful fungi but also help trees grow stronger by improving nutrient absorption. This research offers promise for protecting European forests without relying on chemical fungicides, creating a more natural and sustainable approach to forest health.

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Eleven new species of Trichoderma (Hypocreaceae, Hypocreales) from China

Scientists discovered 11 new species of Trichoderma fungi in China that were isolated from soil and grass plants. These fungi are important because they can produce useful compounds, help control plant diseases, and promote plant growth. The researchers used genetic analysis and microscopy to identify and describe these new species, expanding our knowledge of fungal diversity in China.

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From seagrass roots to saline soils: discovery of two new genera in Lulworthiales (Sordariomycetes) from osmotically stressed habitats

Scientists discovered two previously unknown types of fungi living in extreme salty environments: one in the roots of a seagrass species from Mauritius and another in salt-affected soils in Czechia. Through DNA analysis and microscopic examination, these fungi were formally named as new genera and species belonging to a group of fungi specialized in living in salty conditions. The findings suggest these fungi are more widespread and adaptable than previously thought, challenging the idea that they live only in ocean environments.

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Fungal Assemblages in Northern Elms—Impacts of Host Identity and Health, Growth Environment, and Presence of Dutch Elm Disease

This study examined the different fungi living in elm tree shoots to understand why some elm species are more resistant to Dutch elm disease than others. Researchers found that healthy elms host fewer fungal species compared to diseased trees, and that fungal communities differ significantly between elm species and urban versus rural locations. Importantly, a fungus called Sphaeropsis ulmicola appears to be a significant emerging threat to elms in northern Europe, separate from the classic Dutch elm disease pathogen.

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Biocontrol Potential of Trichoderma Ghanense and Trichoderma Citrinoviride toward Pythium aphanidermatum

Researchers identified two native Trichoderma fungi species that can protect cucumber plants from a destructive soil disease caused by Pythium. In laboratory and greenhouse tests, these beneficial fungi blocked pathogen growth and significantly improved plant survival and growth compared to untreated plants. These findings suggest these natural fungi could replace harmful chemical fungicides for protecting cucumbers and other crops.

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Two new Periconia species (Pleosporales, Ascomycota) in China

Scientists discovered two new fungal species belonging to the genus Periconia in China. These fungi were collected from freshwater streams and corn plants in Guangxi and Yunnan provinces. Using genetic analysis and microscopy, researchers confirmed these as previously unknown species and named them Periconia guangxiense and Periconia xishuangbannaensis. This discovery adds to our understanding of fungal diversity in China and shows that many fungal species remain yet to be discovered.

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Exo-metabolome profiling of soybean endophytes: a road map of antagonism against Fusarium oxysporum

Scientists discovered that certain beneficial bacteria living inside soybean roots can protect the plant from a harmful fungus that causes root rot and reduces crop yield. By analyzing the chemical compounds these bacteria produce, researchers identified specific antifungal substances that kill or inhibit the pathogenic fungus. These findings suggest that instead of using harmful chemical fungicides, farmers could use these beneficial bacteria as a natural, environmentally-friendly way to protect soybean crops and improve agricultural sustainability.

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Diversity and Community Structure of Endophytic Fungi Isolated from the Brown Seaweed Sargassum thunbergii in Coastal Regions of Korea

Researchers collected brown seaweed samples from six coastal regions in Korea and identified 84 different fungal species living inside the seaweed tissues. These endophytic fungi help protect the seaweed by producing defensive chemicals and improving its ability to withstand environmental stress. The study found that water temperature and oxygen levels in the seawater significantly influence which types of fungi are present in each region, with the Tongyeong region hosting the most diverse fungal community.

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Endophytic Diversity in Sicilian Olive Trees: Identifying Optimal Conditions for a Functional Microbial Collection

Researchers studied beneficial bacteria and fungi living inside olive trees from Sicily to create a collection of microorganisms that could improve olive farming. They found that wild olive trees and samples collected in winter had the most diverse and beneficial microbes, and that organic farming practices supported greater microbial diversity. Some of these microbes, especially Bacillus bacteria, showed promise in fighting fungal diseases and promoting plant growth, offering potential for developing natural fertilizers and disease control methods.

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