Researchers discovered that a special fungus called Isaria cateniannulata can successfully colonize buckwheat seeds and promote their germination. When seeds are treated with this fungus, the resulting plants produce more protective enzymes that reduce damage from oxidative stress. Additionally, plants grown from fungus-treated seeds are more resistant to spider mites, laying fewer eggs and reducing pest populations. This discovery offers a natural, biotechnology-based approach to improve seed germination and pest control in buckwheat farming.