Growth-Promoting Effects of Dark Septate Endophytes Fungus <i>Acrocalymma</i> on Tomato (<i>Solanum lycopersicum</i>)
This study investigates the potential role of <i>Acrocalymma</i> dark septate endophytic (DSE) fungi in promoting the growth of <i>Solanum lycopersicum</i> (tomato). Recognized as important symbionts that enhance plant growth and resilience under stress, particularly <i>...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Journal of Fungi |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2309-608X/11/7/510 |
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| Summary: | This study investigates the potential role of <i>Acrocalymma</i> dark septate endophytic (DSE) fungi in promoting the growth of <i>Solanum lycopersicum</i> (tomato). Recognized as important symbionts that enhance plant growth and resilience under stress, particularly <i>Acrocalymma</i> species, DSE fungi were the focus of this investigation. Specifically, four stains isolated from gramineous plant roots (<i>Acrocalymma</i> sp. E00677, <i>Acrocalymma vagum</i> E00690, <i>Acrocalymma chuxiongense</i> E01299A, and <i>Acrocalymma chuxiongense</i> E01299B) were examined. Morphological characteristics were observed using three different media, confirming typical DSE traits such as dark pigmentation and septate hyphae. Phylogenetic analysis using six genetic markers (ITS, LSU, SSU, <i>tef</i>1, <i>rpb</i>2, and <i>tub</i>2) placed the strains within the <i>Acrocalymma</i> genus. Co-culture test and physiological index measurements showed that all strains significantly enhanced root development, as evidenced by an increased root-to-shoot ratio and a higher number of lateral roots. Additionally, the <i>Acrocalymma</i> DSE strains elevated chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and total chlorophyll content, suggesting improved photosynthetic efficiency. Anthocyanin levels were also increased in the tomato leaves, indicating enhanced antioxidative defense mechanisms. Among these strains, <i>Acrocalymma vagum</i> E00690 exhibited the most substantial effect on root activity. The widespread presence of 325 <i>Acrocalymma</i> isolates from 25 countries underscores its broad ecological adaptability. These findings suggest that <i>Acrocalymma</i> DSE fungi positively influence tomato growth, with potential implications for improving plant resilience under environmental stress. This study highlights the importance of further exploring DSEs, particularly <i>Acrocalymma</i> fungi, to better understand their ecological roles in agricultural practices, particularly in tomato cultivation. |
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| ISSN: | 2309-608X |