Chapter 2 - Mangrove endophytes: a rich source of bioactive substances

Abstract

Mangroves are aggregations of ecological community with a competency to grow in extreme environmental conditions. Endophytic microorganisms live within the plants in a symbiotic relationship where both the plants and the endophytes experience benefits. Several endophytic bacteria, including Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Sporosarcina sp., Pseudomonas sp., Serratia sp., Stenotrophomonas sp., and endophytic fungi, like Aspergillus sp., Cladosporium sp., Fusarium sp., Penicillium sp., and Trichoderma sp. are mangrove inhabitants. Apart from bacteria and fungi, actinomycetes, like Streptomyces sp., Microbispora sp., Micromonospora sp., and Nocardia sp. reside in different mangrove environments. Endophytes are known for their numerous activities in different categories of biotechnology. Endophytic microorganisms secrete biologically active compounds which benefits in promotion of host plants under adverse conditions. They are able to protect the plants from pathogens and predatory agents. The production by the endophytes of various antibiotics, enzymes, and growth hormones has gained importance due to their application in the agricultural and medicinal fields. Secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, benzopyranones, flavonoids, phenols, quinones, steroids, terpenoids, tetralones, and xanthones, are secreted by endophytes. The bioactive compounds are strong immunosuppressants, antiparasites, anticytotoxics, and antioxidants. The present chapter discusses the potent endophytic strains found in mangroves and the importance of endophytes in the field of biotechnology.