Abstract
Fungal endophytes have significant effects on host performance including but not limited to changes in reproductive output, as well as, biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. The ultimate mechanisms for resistance to herbivory have been documented in a number of fungal-plant symbiota and involve the production of alkaloids by the fungus. Alkaloids have thus been defined as a currency responsible for increased host resistance to herbivory. We provide support for the hypothesis that another currency may be responsible for increased host tolerance to abiotic stress resulting from endophyte colonization; namely antioxidants. We report comparatively higher activity of antioxidants in endophyte colonized hosts resulting from abiotic stress and propose antioxidants are another currency via which mutualistic interactions between fungal endophytes and their hosts can occur. We recognize fungal endophyte interactions are diverse and complex and include antagonisms, commensalisms, and mutualisms.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
