The potential of fungal endophytes isolated from wild rice species for paddy (Oryza sativa L,) health management

Abstract

Eleven endophytic fungi were isolated and identified from seven wild rice species which were confirmed to be endophytes using endophyte specific marker. Curvularia lunata (NRRI EF-11) and Hypocreals sp (NRRI-EF-8) resulted in better bio control effectivity against 4 different rice pathogens. The same isolate had better growth promotion activities in rice as compared to other isolates. Production of plant growth promoting chemicals namely IAA, IP and prussic acid were studied. Induction of defense was confirmed analyzing the expression of different defense enzymes. interestingly all the endophytes were able to enhance yield. So, these endophytes can be utilized for better management of crop health resulting in higher yield and return.