Physiological and nutritional studies of endophytic fungi in Chhattisgarh
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Physiological and nutritional studies of some endophytic fungi of achanakmar amarkantak biosphere reserve, chhattisgarh
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Amit Sharma, R. V. Shukla and Shweta Sao
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Full text available for: Physiological and nutritional studies of some endophytic fungi of achanakmar amarkantak biosphere reserve, chhattisgarh
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study of endophytic fungi, organisms that inhabit healthy plant tissues without causing symptoms, is crucial for understanding plant physiology and ecology. This research focuses on the endophytic fungi associated with three ethnomedicinal plants—Terminalia arjuna, Terminalia chebula, and Shorea robusta—located in the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve in Chhattisgarh, India. The physiological and nutritional requirements of several endophytic fungi, such as Botrytis, Curvularia, Monodictys, Scytalidium, and Verticillium, were examined, shedding light on their ecological roles and the potential benefits they provide to host plants.
Nutritional Requirements of Endophytic Fungi
An essential finding from the study is the role of different nutritional sources in the growth of endophytic fungi. It was discovered that dextrose served as the most effective carbon source, promoting maximum mycelial growth compared to other tested sugars such as sucrose and maltose. Among the nitrogen sources, peptone and ammonium nitrate consistently supported higher growth rates. These findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate media for cultivating endophytic fungi in laboratory settings, as nutrient composition significantly influences their development and health.
Growth Conditions: Temperature and pH
The research further examined the preferred environmental conditions for fungal growth, including temperature and pH levels. Results indicated that the optimal growth temperature for the studied endophytes ranged between 20°C and 30°C, with a marked decline in growth observed at higher temperatures. In terms of pH, the fungi thrived best in a neutral to slightly acidic environment, with a preferred pH range between 6.5 and 7.0. This information is crucial for understanding how environmental factors affect the life cycles and distributions of fungal endophytes in various ecosystems.
Impact on Host Plants
Endophytic fungi offer various benefits to their host plants, including increased nutrient absorption and enhanced resistance to environmental stresses. The study highlights the symbiotic relationship between endophytes and plants, where the fungi not only derive nutrients from the host but also aid in improving the plant's adaptability to harsh conditions. This relationship is particularly significant for medicinal plants, as it may contribute to their efficacy and survival in diverse environmental scenarios, thereby supporting traditional medicine practices.
Conclusion
The investigation into the physiological and nutritional characteristics of endophytic fungi in the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve reveals critical insights into their ecological roles and interactions with host plants. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding these microorganisms as they not only enhance plant health but also contribute to the overall biodiversity and resilience of ecosystems. Future research should continue to explore the complexity of endophytic fungi, focusing on their potential applications in agriculture and medicine, as well as their responses to changing environmental conditions.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are endophytic fungi and why are they important?
Endophytic fungi are microorganisms that live inside plant tissues without causing symptoms. They play crucial roles in nutrient absorption, enhancing the host plant's adaptability to extreme conditions, and contribute to local ecology.
Which plants were studied for endophytic fungi in the research?
The research focused on three ethnomedicinal plants: Terminalia arjuna (Arjun), T. chebula (Harra), and Shorea robusta (Sal), located in Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, Chhattisgarh.
What media were used for isolating endophytic fungi?
The endophytic fungi were isolated using a variety of media including Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Malt Extract Agar (MEA), Czapek’s Dox, and Yeast Peptone Agar (YPA).
What sources of carbon are preferred by endophytic fungi?
Dextrose was found to be the best carbon source for endophytic fungi growth, followed by sucrose and other carbohydrates like starch, maltose, and cellulose, which showed limited growth.
What temperature range is optimal for the growth of endophytic fungi?
The optimal temperature range for the growth of most endophytic fungi lies between 20°C to 30°C, with the best growth observed at approximately 25°C.
How does pH affect the growth of endophytic fungi?
The fungi showed maximum growth at pH 7, followed by pH 6.5. The growth at higher pH levels, especially pH 8, was minimal, indicating that these fungi prefer slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Physiological and nutritional studies of endophytic fungi in Chhattisgarh”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Medium:
In the context of the study, 'medium' refers to the nutrient-rich environment used to grow endophytic fungi. Various media types, such as Potato Dextrose Agar, Malt Extract Agar, and Czapek’s Dox, were tested to determine which supported optimal growth for specific fungal species. The choice of medium is crucial for achieving reliable experimental results.
2) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' indicates the systematic investigation conducted to understand the physiological and nutritional characteristics of endophytic fungi found in the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. This includes experiments designed to assess fungi's growth requirements, including media, temperature, pH, and nutrient sources, contributing to ecological and medicinal knowledge.
3) Table:
'Table' refers to a systematic arrangement of data presented in the research results. It includes quantitative information such as growth measurements of fungi under various conditions (e.g., different media, carbon and nitrogen sources). Tables facilitate clear and concise comparison of experimental outcomes, aiding in data interpretation.
4) Forest:
The term 'forest' signifies the ecological setting of the study, specifically the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, which is home to unique biodiversity and ethno-botanical resources. Forest ecosystems support various plant species and their associated endophytic fungi, making them vital for ecological studies and conservation efforts.
5) Bilaspur:
Bilaspur is a district in Chhattisgarh, India, where the study's principal institution, Dr. C. V. Raman University, is located. The geographical and ecological characteristics of Bilaspur contribute to the wealth of medicinal plants available for studying their endophytic fungal communities and underscore the importance of local biodiversity.
6) Species:
'Species' refers to distinct categories of organisms, particularly the endophytic fungi being studied, such as Botrytis, Curvularia, and others. Understanding the diversity of species allows researchers to explore their ecological roles, interactions with host plants, and potential medicinal applications, contributing to broader biological knowledge.
7) Surface:
The term 'surface' pertains to the external layer of plant tissues where endophytic fungi are initially isolated. Surface sterilization techniques are critical for eliminating external microbes, ensuring that the cultures in the study reflect genuine endophytic populations, which are crucial for understanding plant-fungal interactions.
8) Madhya:
Madhya Pradesh is the state from which Chhattisgarh was carved in 2000. This geographical context is relevant for understanding regional biodiversity and ecological studies, as the forest resources, plant species, and climate reflect both Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh's rich ecological tapestry essential for endophytic fungi research.
9) India:
India is the country where the study is conducted, specifically focusing on the Chhattisgarh region's biodiversity. Indian ecosystems are characterized by a variety of plant and fungal species. The research highlights the need for understanding these ecosystems' dynamics, particularly the interactions between plants and their associated endophytic fungi.
10) Kota:
Kota refers to the location of Dr. C. V. Raman University, which plays a significant role in the study on endophytic fungi. The university provides the academic and research framework necessary for conducting investigations of local biodiversity, promoting scientific exploration of Chhattisgarh's unique flora and faunal interactions.
11) Tree:
The term 'tree' is significant as the study isolates endophytic fungi from important medicinal tree species like Terminalia arjuna. Trees play an essential role in forests as hosts for diverse endophytic fungi, facilitating the understanding of ecological interactions, nutrient cycles, and the plants' medicinal properties.
12) Rich (Rch):
'Rich' describes the biodiversity and natural resources of Chhattisgarh and the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. This richness underscores the value of conducting ecological studies to explore the diverse organisms found within these habitats, fostering a better understanding of local ecosystems and their conservation needs.
13) Science (Scientific):
Science denotes the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. The research on endophytic fungi reflects the scientific method, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence and knowledge in understanding complex ecological interactions, organism behaviors, and applications in medicine and agriculture.
14) Botany:
Botany is the branch of biology that deals with the study of plants. In this research, botany is central to understanding plant-fungal relationships and the ecological roles of endophytic fungi that inhabit plants like Terminalia arjuna, thereby contributing to both ecological knowledge and practical applications.
15) Water:
Water plays a crucial role in plant physiology and fungi development. The study indirectly highlights the importance of adequate hydration in the growth requirements of fungi, allowing them to thrive in their host plants and maintain the delicate balance of ecosystems within the forest regions of Chhattisgarh.
16) Life:
The term 'life' underscores the focus of the study on living organisms, specifically the interactions between endophytic fungi and their host plants. These interactions, which promote symbiosis and nutrient exchange, are vital for the health of ecosystems and the survival of various species.
17) Central India:
Central India refers to the geographical region encompassing states like Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. This region is significant for its biodiversity and ecological importance, providing a rich landscape for studying endophytic fungi's roles within unique tropical and subtropical forest habitats.
18) Terminalia arjuna:
Terminalia arjuna, a prominent tree species in the study, serves as a host plant for various endophytic fungi. Its medicinal properties and ecological significance make it an essential subject for research, fostering a deeper understanding of its relationship with the fungi it harbors.
19) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is the adjacent state sharing a border with Chhattisgarh. Its biodiversity and ecological conditions may influence fungal populations and dynamics. Studying fungi across regional boundaries can provide insights into biogeographical patterns, adaptations, and the role of environmental factors in shaping fungal communities.
20) Measurement:
Measurement refers to the quantitative assessment performed during the study to evaluate fungal growth under various conditions. Accurate measurements of growth rates, colony diameters, and other parameters are essential for analyzing results and deriving meaningful conclusions regarding the influence of different factors on endophytic fungi.
21) Discussion:
'Discussion' is a section in scientific research where findings are interpreted and contextualized. In this study, the discussion draws connections between experimental results and existing literature, exploring the implications of the physiological characteristics of endophytic fungi and their potential roles in plant health and ecology.
22) Activity:
Activity pertains to the metabolic and growth behaviors of endophytic fungi under different experimental conditions. Understanding the activities of these fungi is crucial for uncovering their ecological roles, such as nutrient cycling, potential benefits for host plants, and their applications in biotechnology and medicine.
23) Disease:
The term 'disease' in this study relates to the health of host plants and the role fungi may play in either promoting health through beneficial interactions or potentially causing issues under pathogenic relationships. The research aims to expand knowledge around these complex plant-fungus interactions.
24) Falling:
Falling refers to the geographical positioning of the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, which partly lies in Madhya Pradesh and partly in Chhattisgarh. This geographical context is important for understanding regional biodiversity, conservation efforts, and the various ecosystems that contribute to the study's findings.
25) Mineral:
Minerals are essential nutrients that both plants and fungi require for growth and development. In this research, the role of endophytic fungi in increasing nutrient uptake for their host plants highlights their ecological significance in mineral cycling within forest ecosystems.
26) Arjuna:
Arjuna refers to Terminalia arjuna, the primary tree studied in this research. Its significance lies in its medicinal properties and ecological role, providing a substrate for endophytic fungi. Understanding its interactions with fungi enhances knowledge of the species' physiological ecology and potential benefits.
27) Shukla (Sukla):
Shukla is the name of a contributor to this research, indicating collaboration in scientific investigation. The authors' diverse expertise combine to enrich the study's quality, promoting thorough analysis and comprehensive exploration of endophytic fungi's roles in ecosystems and medicinal applications.
28) Andhra (Amdhra):
Andhra Pradesh is a neighboring state of Chhattisgarh, bordered to the south. Its environmental conditions might provide insights into regional biodiversity patterns, influencing the occurrences of endophytic fungi and enhancing understanding of ecological dynamics concerning plant-fungi interactions across geographical boundaries.
29) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is another contributor to the research, evidencing the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry. The contributions of each author, reflecting various areas of expertise, reinforce the research findings, highlighting the importance of teamwork in addressing complex ecological questions.
30) Nature:
Nature encompasses the entirety of the biological world, including the interactions between flora and fauna. This study emphasizes the intrinsic relationships between endophytic fungi and their host plants, illustrating their importance in ecological balance, biodiversity, and the potential benefits for agriculture and medicine.
31) Cotton:
In this context, 'cotton' likely refers to the use of cotton blue dye in the identification of fungal species. This staining technique is crucial for microscopic examination of microorganisms, allowing for accurate identification and classification of the fungi present in the culture.
32) Indian:
The term 'Indian' underscores the geographical and cultural context of the study as it pertains to India's rich biodiversity. This research highlights the importance of understanding local ecosystems and their species, particularly in tropical forest regions like those found in Chhattisgarh.
33) Tiger:
The 'Tiger' Project mentioned in the study refers to conservation efforts within the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve aimed at protecting tiger habitats. This project underscores the ecological importance of the area, further emphasizing the need for studies focusing on biodiversity and species interactions.
34) Lamp:
The term 'lamp' refers to the cool daylight fluorescent lamps used for incubating fungal cultures in the study. Proper lighting conditions are crucial for optimal fungal growth, representing an important factor considered in the experimental setup to ensure reliable and valid results.
35) Salt (Salty):
Salt may refer to sodium compounds used in nutrient media to provide necessary ions for fungi. While its specific mention isn’t clear, mineral salts often play a role in influencing microbial growth and are crucial components of the nutrient environments provided for various fungi.
36) Soil:
Soil serves as the primary habitat for plants and is integral to their nutrient uptake. In the study, understanding the interactions between endophytic fungi and their host plants may reveal insights into how these fungi impact nutrient absorption from the soil, enhancing plant health and ecosystem dynamics.
37) Dish (Dis):
'Dish' refers to the Petri dish, a common laboratory vessel used for culturing fungi in the study. The choice of dish is essential for providing a controlled environment to grow and observe the growth patterns and interactions of the endophytic fungi in various experimental conditions.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Physiological and nutritional studies of endophytic fungi in Chhattisgarh’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Medicinal plant, Geographical location, Tropical forest, Symbiotic relationship, Seasonal influence, Temperature condition, Nutritional supplementation, Potato Dextrose Agar, Nutritional requirement, Cultural preference, PH level, Host Plant, Biochemical aspects, Endophytic fungi, Surface sterilization, Healthy Leaves, Physiological studies, Carbon source, Nitrogen source, Biodiversity, Test organism, PDA Medium, Optimum temperature, Mycelial growth, Thermophilic bacteria, Mycelium, Biological control agent, Control Treatment, Submerged culture, Nutrient media, Sterilization method, Colony diameter, Ethno-medicinal plant, Maximum growth, Environmental setting, Fungal endophyte, Buffered medium, Ammonium nitrate, Temperature response.