https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2579-5586
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ABSTRACT
Background
Dark septate endophytes (DSEs) represent a form-group of ascomycetous fungi that inhabit the roots of a wide range of plant species, but our knowledge on their interaction with the host plants is still limited.
Aims
This study was conducted to examine the effect of DSEs on the nutrition and growth of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in order to assess their potential application in horticultural plant production.
Methods
The capacity of two model DSE species, Periconia macrospinosa and Cadophora sp. to mobilise different forms of N and P (organic and inorganic) was analysed, and an in vitro bio assay with tomato plantlets was applied to screen the compatibility of these fungi with the plant. Pot-culture experiments with and without compartments were conducted to study the effects of these DSEs on the growth and nutrient uptake of tomato plants grown with organic and inorganic N and P sources.
Results
Periconia macrospinosa, but not Cadophora sp., increased the root and shoot biomass of tomato plants when organic nutrient resources were present, and both DSEs promoted shoot growth when cultivated with inorganic fertilisers. Analysis of N and P concentrations indicated that the growth response of tomato with inorganic fertilisation was not based on DSE-improved plant nutrition. However, P. macrospinosa improved N uptake from organic sources.
Conclusion
The positive effects of DSEs seem to be due to nutrient mobilisation rather than to hyphal transport to the plant.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Additional information
Funding
Notes on contributors
Wael Yakti
Wael Yakti has studied biotechnology and completed his PhD on root-fungus interactions; his research focuses on plant–DSE interactions.
Gábor M. Kovács
Gábor M. Kovács is a mycologist with an interest in the functioning and diversity of plant-associated fungi and root-colonising endophytes, especially in semiarid areas, with an emphasis on fungal evolution.
Pál Vági
Pál Vági explores the formation, dynamics, possible competition and cooperation in plant/fungus interactions, with experience in light and electron microscopy of plant pathogenic and hyperparasitic fungi and viruses.
Philipp Franken
Philipp Franken is a molecular phytopathologist interested in root-fungus interactions concerning plant nutrition and plant health in horticultural production systems.