Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

Plant and fungal interactions

Works Count: 32956

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This cluster of papers explores the evolutionary origins, ecological consequences, and molecular mechanisms of endophyte symbiosis with grasses. It investigates the adaptations of endophyte-infected grasses to environmental stresses, the role of alkaloid biosynthesis in plant stress tolerance, and the coevolutionary dynamics between host plants and mutualistic fungi. The research also delves into the impact of endophytic fungi on grassland ecosystems and their potential applications in agriculture.

Keywords

Endophyte Symbiosis; Grass-Fungal Interaction; Alkaloid Biosynthesis; Plant Stress Tolerance; Mutualistic Fungi; Symbiotic Symbionts; Host-Endophyte Coevolution; Ecological Consequences; Grassland Ecosystems; Fungal Genetics

The Canadian Veterinary Journal.

1961-07-01

Bryson Hl

Epichloë typhina from toxic tall fescue grasses

1977-11-01

Charles W. Bacon , James K. Porter , Joe D. Robbins +1 more

Epichloë typhina, a clavicipitaceous systemic phytopathogen, was isolated from two varieties and three hybrids of tall fescue (Festuca arundinaceae). The morphology of the fescue isolates was compared with E. typhina … Epichloë typhina, a clavicipitaceous systemic phytopathogen, was isolated from two varieties and three hybrids of tall fescue (Festuca arundinaceae). The morphology of the fescue isolates was compared with E. typhina isolated from bent grass (Agrostis perennans). In all isolates, conidia were identical and were typical of E. typhina. In fescue grasses the endophyte failed to produce stromata, but on bent grass the fungus seasonally produced stromata, typical of the genus. Cattle grazing the fescue grasses showed signs of the fescue toxicity syndrome, the E. typhina was found in frequencies of 100%; in grasses from pastures in which cattle showed no signs of the syndrome, frequencies were 0 to 50%. Nutritional factors in vitro were more complex for the isolates from fescue than for the isolate from bent grass. These studies suggested that E. typhina includes biotypes that might be involved in the toxicity syndrome. The fescue biotypes grew poorly on media, and yields were inadequate for toxicity studies. However, the bent grass isolate grew well on three media, and extracts from two of these were toxic to chicken embryos. All isolates produced in vitro the nontoxic fungal steroid tetraenone [ergosta-4,6,8(14),22-tetraen-3-one], which has been isolated from toxic fescue grasses.

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Evolutionary Origins and Ecological Consequences of Endophyte Symbiosis with Grasses

2002-10-01

Keith Clay , Christopher L. Schardl

Over the past 20 yr much has been learned about a unique symbiotic interaction between fungal endophytes and grasses. The fungi (Clavicipitaceae, Ascomycota) grow intercellularly and systemically in aboveground plant … Over the past 20 yr much has been learned about a unique symbiotic interaction between fungal endophytes and grasses. The fungi (Clavicipitaceae, Ascomycota) grow intercellularly and systemically in aboveground plant parts. Vertically transmitted asexual endophytes forming asymptomatic infections of cool-season grasses have been repeatedly derived from sexual species that abort host inflorescences. The phylogenetic distribution of seed-transmitted endophytes is strongly suggestive of cocladogenesis with their hosts. Molecular evidence indicates that many seed-transmitted endophytes are interspecific hybrids. Superinfection may result in hyphal fusion and parasexual recombination. Most endophytes produce one or more alkaloid classes that likely play some role in defending the host plant against pests. Hybridization may have led to the proliferation of alkaloid-production genes among asexual endophytes, favoring hybrids. The ergot alkaloid ergovaline, lolitrems, and lolines are produced by only a single sexual species, Epichloë festucae, but they are common in seed-transmitted endophytes, suggesting that E. festucae contributed genes for their synthesis. Asexual hybrids may also be favored by the counteracting of the accumulation of deleterious mutations (Muller's rachet). Endophyte infection can provide other benefits, such as enhanced drought tolerance, photosynthetic rate, and growth. Estimates of infection frequency have revealed variable levels of infection with especially high prevalence in the subfamily Pooideae. Longitudinal studies suggest that the prevalence of seed-transmitted endophytes can increase rapidly over time. In field experiments, infected tall fescue suppressed other grasses and forbs relative to uninfected fescue and supported lower consumer populations. Unlike other widespread plant/microbial symbioses based on the acquisition of mineral resources, grass/endophyte associations are based primarily on protection of the host from biotic and abiotic stresses.

Properties of [3H]haloperidol and [3H]dopamine binding associated with dopamine receptors in calf brain membranes.

1976-09-01

David R. Burt , Ian Creese , Solomon H. Snyder

[ 3 H]Haloperidol and [ 3 H]dopamine bind in saturable fashion to membranes from calf brain with high affinity and other characteristics indicating an association with post-synaptic dopamine receptors. Kinetic … [ 3 H]Haloperidol and [ 3 H]dopamine bind in saturable fashion to membranes from calf brain with high affinity and other characteristics indicating an association with post-synaptic dopamine receptors. Kinetic analysis of rates of association and dissociation yields K D values in agreement with equilibrium measurements. Regional variations in [ 3 H]dopamine and [ 3 H]haloperidol binding are parallel and correspond to regional differences in dopaminergic innervation. Drug specificity does not appear to differ between limbic and striatal areas. The relative potencies of various agonists and antagonists on the binding of the two ligands parallel their pharmacological actions at dopamine receptor sites. Dopamine agonists have 6-38 times more affinity for [ 3 H]dopamine than [ 3 H]haloperidol binding sites. By contrast, dopamine antagonists have 20-12,000 times more affinity for [ 3 H]haloperidol than [ 3 H]dopamine binding sites. Ergot derivatives, including d -lysergic acid diethylamide, and other serotonin antagonists have substantial affinity for both types of binding.

8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin, 8-OH-DPAT, a potent and selective simplified ergot congener with central 5-HT-receptor stimulating activity

1982-09-01

Stephan Hjorth , Arvid Carlsson , Per Lindberg +5 more

Toxicity, metabolism, and impact of mycotoxins on humans and animals

2001-10-15

H. S. Hussein

Unraveling the role of fungal symbionts in plant abiotic stress tolerance

2011-02-01

Lamabam Peter Singh , Sarvajeet Singh Gill , Narendra Tuteja

Fungal symbionts have been found associated with every plant studied in natural ecosystem, where they colonize and reside entirely in the internal tissues of their host plant or partially. Fungal … Fungal symbionts have been found associated with every plant studied in natural ecosystem, where they colonize and reside entirely in the internal tissues of their host plant or partially. Fungal endophytes can express/form a range of different lifestyle/relationships with different host including symbiotic, mutualistic, commensalistic and parasitic in response to host genotype and environmental factors. In mutualistic association fungal endophyte can enhance growth, increase reproductive success and confer biotic and abiotic stress tolerance to its host plant. Since abiotic stress such as, drought, high soil salinity, heat, cold, oxidative stress, heavy metal toxicity is the common adverse environmental conditions that affect and limit crop productivity worldwide. It may be a promising alternative strategy to exploit fungal endophytes to overcome the limitations to crop production brought by abiotic stress. There is increasing interest in developing the potential biotechnological applications of fungal endophytes for improving plant stress tolerance and sustainable production of food crops. Here we have described the fungal symbioses, fungal symbionts and their role in abiotic stress tolerance. A putative mechanism of stress tolerance by symbionts has also been covered.

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The endophyte-host interaction: a balanced antagonism?

1999-10-01

Barbara Schulz , Anne-Katrin Römmert , Ulrike Dammann +2 more

Why Fruits Rot, Seeds Mold, and Meat Spoils

1977-07-01

Daniel H. Janzen

When an animal eats "spoiled" or "rotten" food of any kind, it runs a largely unknown risk (except in the case of grains) of being injured by toxins or microbe-produced … When an animal eats "spoiled" or "rotten" food of any kind, it runs a largely unknown risk (except in the case of grains) of being injured by toxins or microbe-produced antibiotics, getting food with lowered nutrient content, and infecting itself with microbes. Of course, these consequences may all be the product of microbes interacting with each other. However, I suspect that these traits have also been molded by the generally maladaptive event of having yourself and your resources eaten by a large animal. Animals have probably also done their part in evolving fairly accurate means of knowing when a food item contains organisms that do not wish to be eaten and therefore have coevolved sensory input. I would not suggest that the selective pressure for the production of alcohols, free acids, aflatoxins, qureomycin, botulinin, enterotoxin, etc., is solely the repulsion of large animals, but I would suggest that large animals have played a large and virtually unrecognized role in evolution of their production. Fruits rot, seeds mold, and meat spoils because that is the way microbes compete with bigger organisms.

Dung Beetle Ecology

1991-12-31

Ilkka Hanski , Yves Cambefort

In many ecosystems dung beetles play a crucial role--both ecologically and economically--in the decomposition of large herbivore dung. Their activities provide scientists with an excellent opportunity to explore biological community … In many ecosystems dung beetles play a crucial role--both ecologically and economically--in the decomposition of large herbivore dung. Their activities provide scientists with an excellent opportunity to explore biological community dynamics. This collection of essays offers a concise account of the population and community ecology of dung beetles worldwide, with an emphasis on comparisons between arctic, temperate, and tropical species assemblages. Useful insights arise from relating the vast differences in species' life histories to their population and community-level consequences. The authors also discuss changes in dung beetle faunas due to human-caused habitat alteration and examine the possible effects of introducing dung beetles to cattle-breeding areas that lack efficient native species. "With the expansion of cattle breeding areas, the ecology of dung beetles is a subject of great economic concern as well as one of intense theoretical interest. This excellent book represents an up-to-date ecological study covering important aspects of the dung beetle never before presented."--Gonzalo Halffter, Instituto de Ecologia, Mexico City Originally published in 1991. The Princeton Legacy Library uses the latest print-on-demand technology to again make available previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original texts of these important books while presenting them in durable paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University Press since its founding in 1905.

Ecology, metabolite production, and substrate utilization in endophytic fungi

1993-05-01

Orlando Petrini , Thomas N. Sieber , Luigi Toti +1 more

Abstract Endophytic fungi are a taxonomically and ecologically heterogenous group of organisms, mainly belonging to the Ascomycotina and Deuteromycotina. The isolation methods affect the species composition of the endophyte assemblage … Abstract Endophytic fungi are a taxonomically and ecologically heterogenous group of organisms, mainly belonging to the Ascomycotina and Deuteromycotina. The isolation methods affect the species composition of the endophyte assemblage in a given host. The number of endophyte taxa isolated from a host species is usually large; however, only few, normally host specific species or strains are dominant. Endophyte assemblages are specific at the host species level, but species composition and frequencies are significantly affected by site‐specific conditions. Moreover, the relative importance and number of endophytic species vary among individuals within sites. In some cases, each individual could be considered a separate ecosystem. In general, however, 40 individuals with 30 to 40 sampling units per organ and individual should be enough to detect 80% of taxa present in a given host at one site. Endophytes usually produce the enzymes necessary for the colonization of plant tissues. Substrate utilization studies and isozyme analysis have demonstrated that most endophytes are able to utilize most plant cell components. The production of growth promoting factors and of metabolites useful in the pharmaceutical and agricultural industry is widespread among endophytic fungi. The usefulness of endophytes in agricultural and pharmaceutical research is briefly discussed. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.

Chemistry and Biology of Mycotoxins and Related Fungal Metabolites

2009-06-17

Stefan Bräse , Arantxa Encinas , Julia Keck +1 more

ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVReviewNEXTChemistry and Biology of Mycotoxins and Related Fungal MetabolitesStefan Bräse*, Arantxa Encinas†, Julia Keck‡, and Carl F. Nising§View Author Information Institut für Organische Chemie,Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVReviewNEXTChemistry and Biology of Mycotoxins and Related Fungal MetabolitesStefan Bräse*, Arantxa Encinas†, Julia Keck‡, and Carl F. Nising§View Author Information Institut für Organische Chemie,Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, D-76131 Karlsruhe, Germany* To whom correspondence should be addressed. Fax +49 721 608 8581. E-mail: [email protected].†New address of A.E.: Elara Pharmaceuticals, Heidelberg, Germany.‡New address of J.K.: Evonik Degussa, Rheinfelden, Germany.§New address of C.N.: Bayer Cropscience, Monheim, Germany.Cite this: Chem. Rev. 2009, 109, 9, 3903–3990Publication Date (Web):June 17, 2009Publication History Received1 October 2007Published online17 June 2009Published inissue 9 September 2009https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/cr050001fhttps://doi.org/10.1021/cr050001freview-articleACS PublicationsCopyright © 2009 American Chemical SocietyRequest reuse permissionsArticle Views15657Altmetric-Citations473LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InRedditEmail Other access optionsGet e-Alertsclose SUBJECTS:Chemical synthesis,Fungi,Organic compounds,Organic synthesis,Toxins Get e-Alerts

Fungal Endophytes of Grasses: A Defensive Mutualism between Plants and Fungi

1988-02-01

Keith Clay

Many grasses are infected by systemic fungal endophytes (family Clavicipitaceae, Ascomycetes) that produce pysiologically active alkaloids in the tissues of their hosts. Infection makes grasses toxic to domestic mammals and … Many grasses are infected by systemic fungal endophytes (family Clavicipitaceae, Ascomycetes) that produce pysiologically active alkaloids in the tissues of their hosts. Infection makes grasses toxic to domestic mammals and increases resistance to insect herbivores. Some grasses are sterilized by endophyte infection while remaining vegetatively vigorous; other infected grasses remain completely fertile. Experiments demonstrate that plant growth and seed production can be increased by infection. This symbiotic association may be a defensive mutualism in which the fungi defend their hosts against herbivory, thereby defending their own resources. Recent studies suggest that defensive mutualism of endophytes with grasses may be widespread.

Fungal Endophyte Symbiosis and Plant Diversity in Successional Fields

1999-09-10

Keith Clay , Jenny Holah

Increasing evidence suggests that microbial interactions are important determinants of plant biodiversity. The hypothesis that fungal endophyte symbiosis reduces diversity in successional fields was tested by manipulating infection of tall … Increasing evidence suggests that microbial interactions are important determinants of plant biodiversity. The hypothesis that fungal endophyte symbiosis reduces diversity in successional fields was tested by manipulating infection of tall fescue, the most abundant perennial grass in the eastern United States. Over a 4-year period, species richness declined and tall fescue dominance increased in infected plots relative to uninfected plots without differences in total productivity. A host-specific endophyte, with negligible biomass, altered plant community structure in this long-term field experiment and may be reducing plant diversity throughout its expanding range.

Fungal endophytes: unique plant inhabitants with great promises

2011-04-26

Amal H. Aly , Abdessamad Debbab , Peter Proksch

Historical View on Ergot Alkaloids

1978-01-01

Arno Ernesto Hofmann

A short survey of the history of ergot, of the original and, for a long time, only source of ergot alkaloids, is given. Once a dreaded poison, ergot has changed … A short survey of the history of ergot, of the original and, for a long time, only source of ergot alkaloids, is given. Once a dreaded poison, ergot has changed its role over the centuries to become a rich treasure house of valuable pharmaceuticals. In the Middle Ages it was the cause of epidemics of ergotism, which cost tens of thousands of people their lives. Ergot was first mentioned by the German physician Lonitzer in 1582 as a remedy used by midwives for quickening childbirth. The isolation of pharmacologically useful alkaloids started in 1906 with the discovery of ergotoxine and its adrenolytic activity by Barger, Can and Dale. In 1918, Stoll isolated ergotamine, the first chemically pure ergot alkaloid, which found widespread therapeutic use in obstetrics and internal medicine. In 1935 the specific oxytocic principle of ergot, ergonovine, was discovered simultaneously in four separate laboratories. Since then, worldwide investigations on ergot alkaloids resulted in the elucidation of their structures and total syntheses and preparation of valuable therapeutics such as Methergine, Hydergine, Dihydergot, and others.

Thermotolerance Generated by Plant/Fungal Symbiosis

2002-11-22

Regina S. Redman , Kathy B. Sheehan , Richard G. Stout +2 more

All plants studied in natural ecosystems are symbiotic with fungi (1), which obtain nutrients while either positively, negatively, or neutrally affecting host fitness (2). Plant adaptation to selective pressures is … All plants studied in natural ecosystems are symbiotic with fungi (1), which obtain nutrients while either positively, negatively, or neutrally affecting host fitness (2). Plant adaptation to selective pressures is considered to be regulated by the plant genome (3). To test whether mutualistic fungi contribute to plant adaptation, we collected 200 Dichanthelium lanuginosum plants from geothermal soils at 10 sites in Lassen Volcanic (LVNP) and Yellowstone (YNP) National Parks. These soils have annual temperature fluctuations ranging from about 20° to 50°C (4).

On some physiological actions of ergot

1906-05-31

H. H. Dale

Endophytes from herbaceous plants and shrubs: effectiveness of surface sterilization methods

1993-12-01

Barbara Schulz , U. Wanke , S. Draeger +1 more

Hydrophobins: Multipurpose Proteins

2001-10-01

Han A. B. Wösten

▪ Abstract Class I and class II hydrophobins are small secreted fungal proteins that play a role in a broad range of processes in the growth and development of filamentous … ▪ Abstract Class I and class II hydrophobins are small secreted fungal proteins that play a role in a broad range of processes in the growth and development of filamentous fungi. For instance, they are involved in the formation of aerial structures and in the attachment of hyphae to hydrophobic surfaces. The mechanisms by which hydrophobins fulfill these functions are based on their property to self-assemble at hydrophilic-hydrophobic interfaces into a 10 nm-thin highly amphipathic film. Complementation studies have shown that class I hydrophobins belong to a closely related group of morphogenetic proteins, but that they have evolved to function at specific interfaces. Recent evidence indicates that hydrophobins do not only function by self-assembly. Monomeric hydrophobin has been implicated in cell-wall assembly, but the underlying mechanism is not yet clear. In addition, hydrophobin monomers could act as toxins and elicitors.

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Effect of the Tall Fescue Endophyte on Plant Response to Environmental Stress

1989-01-01

M. Arachevaleta , Charles W. Bacon , C. S. Hoveland +1 more

Abstract The adverse effect of the tall fescue ( Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) fungal endophyte ( Acremonium coenophialum Morgan‐Jones and Gams) on animal performance is well recognized but the mutualistic effect … Abstract The adverse effect of the tall fescue ( Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) fungal endophyte ( Acremonium coenophialum Morgan‐Jones and Gams) on animal performance is well recognized but the mutualistic effect of this fungus‐grass association under environmental stress is not well understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate endophyte‐free (EF) and endophyte‐infected (El) tall fescue plants from one clone for morphological and physiological responses to flooding, N rates (11, 73, and 220 mg N pof −1 ), and −0.03, −0.05 and −0.50 MPa drought stress in the greenhouse. Plants were grown in a synthetic mixture of the following by volume: Cecil sandy clay loam (clayey, kaolinitic, thermic Typic Hapludult) (33%), sand (16%), peat moss (17%), perlite (17%), and vermiculite (17%). Leaf blades of El, as compared to EF plants were thicker and narrower regardless of flooding, N rate, or drought stress. Plant ultrastructure was not appreciably altered by the endophyte. Herbage growth was 50% greater on El than EF plants, especially at higher N levels. Tillering increased on El plants but only at the highest N rate. The El plants were more productive than EF plants at mild soil moisture stress (−0.05 MPa). At more severe stress (−0.5 MPa) 75% of EF plants died and all El plants survived. Leaf rolling under drought stress was much more common in El than EF plants. Regrowth after harvest with abundant watering of previously drought‐stressed plants was much greater on El than EF plants. There was little or no difference in digestibility of forage from El and EF plants. The results indicate that there are positive benefits derived from association of an endophyte with tall fescue resulting in growth stimulation, improved survival, and drought tolerance to the host plant that could be important in plant competition.

Opportunities to improve fiber degradation in the rumen: microbiology, ecology, and genomics

2003-09-12

Denis O. Krause , Stuart E. Denman , Roderick I. Mackie +4 more

The degradation of plant cell walls by ruminants is of major economic importance in the developed as well as developing world. Rumen fermentation is unique in that efficient plant cell … The degradation of plant cell walls by ruminants is of major economic importance in the developed as well as developing world. Rumen fermentation is unique in that efficient plant cell wall degradation relies on the cooperation between microorganisms that produce fibrolytic enzymes and the host animal that provides an anaerobic fermentation chamber. Increasing the efficiency with which the rumen microbiota degrades fiber has been the subject of extensive research for at least the last 100 years. Fiber digestion in the rumen is not optimal, as is supported by the fact that fiber recovered from feces is fermentable. This view is confirmed by the knowledge that mechanical and chemical pretreatments improve fiber degradation, as well as more recent research, which has demonstrated increased fiber digestion by rumen microorganisms when plant lignin composition is modified by genetic manipulation. Rumen microbiologists have sought to improve fiber digestion by genetic and ecological manipulation of rumen fermentation. This has been difficult and a number of constraints have limited progress, including: (a) a lack of reliable transformation systems for major fibrolytic rumen bacteria, (b) a poor understanding of ecological factors that govern persistence of fibrolytic bacteria and fungi in the rumen, (c) a poor understanding of which glycolyl hydrolases need to be manipulated, and (d) a lack of knowledge of the functional genomic framework within which fiber degradation operates. In this review the major fibrolytic organisms are briefly discussed. A more extensive discussion of the enzymes involved in fiber degradation is included. We also discuss the use of plant genetic manipulation, application of free-living lignolytic fungi and the use of exogenous enzymes. Lastly, we will discuss how newer technologies such as genomic and metagenomic approaches can be used to improve our knowledge of the functional genomic framework of plant cell wall degradation in the rumen.

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SYMBIOSES OF GRASSES WITH SEEDBORNE FUNGAL ENDOPHYTES

2004-04-29

Christopher L. Schardl , Adrian Leuchtmann , Martin J. Spiering

▪ Abstract Grasses (family Poaceae) and fungi of the family Clavicipitaceae have a long history of symbiosis ranging in a continuum from mutualisms to antagonisms. This continuum is particularly evident … ▪ Abstract Grasses (family Poaceae) and fungi of the family Clavicipitaceae have a long history of symbiosis ranging in a continuum from mutualisms to antagonisms. This continuum is particularly evident among symbioses involving the fungal genus Epichloë (asexual forms = Neotyphodium spp.). In the more mutualistic symbiota, the epichloë endophytes are vertically transmitted via host seeds, and in the more antagonistic symbiota they spread contagiously and suppress host seed set. The endophytes gain shelter, nutrition, and dissemination via host propagules, and can contribute an array of host fitness enhancements including protection against insect and vertebrate herbivores and root nematodes, enhancements of drought tolerance and nutrient status, and improved growth particularly of the root. In some systems, such as the tall fescue N. coenophialum symbioses, the plant may depend on the endophyte under many natural conditions. Recent advances in endophyte molecular biology promise to shed light on the mechanisms of the symbioses and host benefits.

Fungal endophytes limit pathogen damage in a tropical tree

2003-12-11

A. Elizabeth Arnold , Luis C. Mejía , Damond A. Kyllo +4 more

Every plant species examined to date harbors endophytic fungi within its asymptomatic aerial tissues, such that endophytes represent a ubiquitous, yet cryptic, component of terrestrial plant communities. Fungal endophytes associated … Every plant species examined to date harbors endophytic fungi within its asymptomatic aerial tissues, such that endophytes represent a ubiquitous, yet cryptic, component of terrestrial plant communities. Fungal endophytes associated with leaves of woody angiosperms are especially diverse; yet, fundamental aspects of their interactions with hosts are unknown. In contrast to the relatively species-poor endophytes that are vertically transmitted and act as defensive mutualists of some temperate grasses, the diverse, horizontally transmitted endophytes of woody angiosperms are thought to contribute little to host defense. Here, we document high diversity, spatial structure, and host affinity among foliar endophytes associated with a tropical tree ( Theobroma cacao , Malvaceae) across lowland Panama. We then show that inoculation of endophyte-free leaves with endophytes isolated frequently from naturally infected, asymptomatic hosts significantly decreases both leaf necrosis and leaf mortality when T. cacao seedlings are challenged with a major pathogen ( Phytophthora sp.). In contrast to reports of fungal inoculation inducing systemic defense, we found that protection was primarily localized to endophyte-infected tissues. Further, endophyte-mediated protection was greater in mature leaves, which bear less intrinsic defense against fungal pathogens than do young leaves. In vitro studies suggest that host affinity is mediated by leaf chemistry, and that protection may be mediated by direct interactions of endophytes with foliar pathogens. Together, these data demonstrate the capacity of diverse, horizontally transmitted endophytes of woody angiosperms to play an important but previously unappreciated role in host defense.

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History of ergot alkaloids from ergotism to ergometrine

1995-06-01

P.W.J. van Dongen , A.N.J.A. de Groot

Increased Fitness of Rice Plants to Abiotic Stress Via Habitat Adapted Symbiosis: A Strategy for Mitigating Impacts of Climate Change

2011-07-05

Regina S. Redman , Yong Ok Kim , Claire Woodward +4 more

Climate change and catastrophic events have contributed to rice shortages in several regions due to decreased water availability and soil salinization. Although not adapted to salt or drought stress, two … Climate change and catastrophic events have contributed to rice shortages in several regions due to decreased water availability and soil salinization. Although not adapted to salt or drought stress, two commercial rice varieties achieved tolerance to these stresses by colonizing them with Class 2 fungal endophytes isolated from plants growing across moisture and salinity gradients.Plant growth and development, water usage, ROS sensitivity and osmolytes were measured with and without stress under controlled conditions.The endophytes conferred salt, drought and cold tolerance to growth chamber and greenhouse grown plants. Endophytes reduced water consumption by 20-30% and increased growth rate, reproductive yield, and biomass of greenhouse grown plants. In the absence of stress, there was no apparent cost of the endophytes to plants, however, endophyte colonization decreased from 100% at planting to 65% compared to greenhouse plants grown under continual stress (maintained 100% colonization).These findings indicate that rice plants can exhibit enhanced stress tolerance via symbiosis with Class 2 endophytes, and suggest that symbiotic technology may be useful in mitigating impacts of climate change on other crops and expanding agricultural production onto marginal lands.

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Stress tolerance in plants via habitat-adapted symbiosis

2008-02-07

Rusty J. Rodriguez , Joan M. Henson , Elizabeth Van Volkenburgh +5 more

Adaptations of Endophyte‐Infected Cool‐Season Grasses to Environmental Stresses: Mechanisms of Drought and Mineral Stress Tolerance

2000-07-01

Dariusz P. Malinowski , D. P. Belesky

Cool‐season grasses infected with Neotyphodium spp. endophytes have an extraordinary impact on the ecology and economy of pasture and turf. A range of adaptations of endophyte‐infected grasses to biotic and … Cool‐season grasses infected with Neotyphodium spp. endophytes have an extraordinary impact on the ecology and economy of pasture and turf. A range of adaptations of endophyte‐infected grasses to biotic and abiotic stresses has been identified but mechanisms of these adaptations are not clearly understood. In this review, we present recent research progress on endophyte‐related mechanisms affecting abiotic (drought, mineral) and selected aspects of biotic stress tolerance in cool‐season grasses. Endophytes induce mechanisms of drought avoidance (morphological adaptations), drought tolerance (physiological and biochemical adaptations), and drought recovery in infected grasses. Mineral nutrition (nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium) affects production of ergot alkaloids, thus understanding mechanisms involved in mineral economy of endophyte‐infected grasses will help in developing management practices to reduce forage toxicity to livestock. Previous research resolved the role of endophyte in nitrogen (N) economy of tall fescue. We identified two endophyte‐related mechanisms in tall fescue operating in response to phosphorus (P) deficiency. The mechanisms are altered root morphology (reduced root diameters and longer root hairs) and chemical modification of the rhizosphere resulting from exudation of phenolic‐like compounds. These mechanisms were shown to benefit endophyte‐infected plants grown under P deficiency. We also report a mechanism of aluminum (Al) sequestration on root surfaces in endophyte‐infected tall fescue, which appears to be related to exudation of phenolic‐like compounds with Al‐chelating activity. Understanding mechanisms of abiotic stress tolerance in endophyte‐infected grasses is essential for continued improvement and persistence of grasses for a range of applications, e.g., forage for semi‐arid areas or cover plants for soil renovation.

Fungal endophytes: diversity and functional roles

2009-02-19

Rusty J. Rodriguez , James F. White , A. Elizabeth Arnold +1 more

Summary All plants in natural ecosystems appear to be symbiotic with fungal endophytes. This highly diverse group of fungi can have profound impacts on plant communities through increasing fitness by … Summary All plants in natural ecosystems appear to be symbiotic with fungal endophytes. This highly diverse group of fungi can have profound impacts on plant communities through increasing fitness by conferring abiotic and biotic stress tolerance, increasing biomass and decreasing water consumption, or decreasing fitness by altering resource allocation. Despite more than 100 yr of research resulting in thousands of journal articles, the ecological significance of these fungi remains poorly characterized. Historically, two endophytic groups (clavicipitaceous (C) and nonclavicipitaceous (NC)) have been discriminated based on phylogeny and life history traits. Here, we show that NC‐endophytes represent three distinct functional groups based on host colonization and transmission, in planta biodiversity and fitness benefits conferred to hosts. Using this framework, we contrast the life histories, interactions with hosts and potential roles in plant ecophysiology of C‐ and NC‐endophytes, and highlight several key questions for future work in endophyte biology. Contents Summary 314 I. Introduction 314 II. Clavicipitaceous endophytes (Class 1) 316 III. Nonclavicipitaceous endophytes 319 IV. Class 2 endophytes 319 V. Class 3 endophytes 321 VI. Class 4 endophytes 323 VII. Conclusions 325 Acknowledgements 326 References 326

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Endophytic microorganisms: a review on insect control and recent advances on tropical plants

2000-04-15

João Lúcio de Azevedo , Walter Maccheroni , José Odair Pereira +1 more

Fungal Endophytes in Stems and Leaves: From Latent Pathogen to Mutualistic Symbiont

1988-02-01

George C. Carroll

Endophytes are fungi that form inapparent infections within leaves and stems of healthy plants. Closely related to virulent pathogens but with limited, if any, pathogenic effects themselves, many endophytes protect … Endophytes are fungi that form inapparent infections within leaves and stems of healthy plants. Closely related to virulent pathogens but with limited, if any, pathogenic effects themselves, many endophytes protect host plants from natural enemies. Animal herbivores and, in some cases, pathogenic microbes are poisoned by the mycotoxins produced by endophytes. "Constitutive mutualism" is the relatively faithful association, usually with grasses, of endophytes that infect host ovules and are propagated in host seed; substantial fungal biomass with probable high metabolic cost develops throughout the aerial parts of the host plant. "Inducible mutualist" endophytes are not involved with host seed and disseminate independently through air or in water. Infecting only vegetative parts of the host and remaining metabolically inactive for long periods with relatively little fungal biomass, inducible mutualists grow rapidly and produce toxins against herbivores when damaged host tissues provide new sites for infection. I surmise that endophytes may be as common among plants as are mycorrhyzae.

Endophytes: a rich source of functional metabolites (1987 to 2000)

2001-01-01

Ren Xiang Tan , W. X. Zou

Covering: 1987–2000 Covering: 1987–2000

Hidden Fungi, Emergent Properties: Endophytes and Microbiomes

2011-03-03

Andrea Porras‐Alfaro , Paul Bayman

Endophytes are microorganisms that live within plant tissues without causing symptoms of disease. They are important components of plant microbiomes. Endophytes interact with, and overlap in function with, other core … Endophytes are microorganisms that live within plant tissues without causing symptoms of disease. They are important components of plant microbiomes. Endophytes interact with, and overlap in function with, other core microbial groups that colonize plant tissues, e.g., mycorrhizal fungi, pathogens, epiphytes, and saprotrophs. Some fungal endophytes affect plant growth and plant responses to pathogens, herbivores, and environmental change; others produce useful or interesting secondary metabolites. Here, we focus on new techniques and approaches that can provide an integrative understanding of the role of fungal endophytes in the plant microbiome. Clavicipitaceous endophytes of grasses are not considered because they have unique properties distinct from other endophytes. Hidden from view and often overlooked, endophytes are emerging as their diversity, importance for plant growth and survival, and interactions with other organisms are revealed.

Bioprotective Alkaloids of Grass-Fungal Endophyte Symbioses

1997-05-01

Lowell P. Bush , Heather H. Wilkinson , Christopher L. Schardl

Symbiotic interactions of C3 grasses with fungal endophytes, Epichloe species and their asexual relatives Neotypkodium, often provide the grass hosts with major fitness enhancements (for review, see Siegel and Bush … Symbiotic interactions of C3 grasses with fungal endophytes, Epichloe species and their asexual relatives Neotypkodium, often provide the grass hosts with major fitness enhancements (for review, see Siegel and Bush [1994]). The endophytes protect host plants from both biotic and abiotic environmental stresses. Documented enhancements to host fitness include greater resistance to mammalian and insect herbivores, pathogens, and nematodes, as well as increased drought tolerance and competitiveness. Our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for a11 of these effects on host fitness is not well established. However, the antiherbivore fitness enhancements are largely attributable to the accumulation of four groups of alkaloids: lolines, peramine, ergot alkaloids, and lolitrems. The objective of this Update is to present the current status of knowledge on these alkaloids, focusing on their biological activities and the potential for genetically manipulating their expression in grasslendophyte symbiota.

St Anthony's fire and living ligatures: a short history of ergometrine

2002-05-01

Caroline de Costa

Evolution of endophyte?plant symbioses

2004-05-13

Kari Saikkonen , Piippa R. Wäli , Marjo Helander +1 more

More than 400 million years of evolution and some plants still can't make it on their own: plant stress tolerance via fungal symbiosis

2008-02-11

R. Rodriguez , Regina S. Redman

All plants in natural ecosystems are thought to be symbiotic with mycorrhizal and/or endophytic fungi. Collectively, these fungi express different symbiotic lifestyles ranging from parasitism to mutualism. Analysis of Colletotrichum … All plants in natural ecosystems are thought to be symbiotic with mycorrhizal and/or endophytic fungi. Collectively, these fungi express different symbiotic lifestyles ranging from parasitism to mutualism. Analysis of Colletotrichum species indicates that individual isolates can express either parasitic or mutualistic lifestyles depending on the host genotype colonized. The endophyte colonization pattern and lifestyle expression indicate that plants can be discerned as either disease, non-disease, or non-hosts. Fitness benefits conferred by fungi expressing mutualistic lifestyles include biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, growth enhancement, and increased reproductive success. Analysis of plant-endophyte associations in high stress habitats revealed that at least some fungal endophytes confer habitat-specific stress tolerance to host plants. Without the habitat-adapted fungal endophytes, the plants are unable to survive in their native habitats. Moreover, the endophytes have a broad host range encompassing both monocots and eudicots, and confer habitat-specific stress tolerance to both plant groups.

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Analysis of a Chemical Plant Defense Mechanism in Grasses

1997-08-01

Monika Frey , Paul Chomet , Erich Glawischnig +7 more

In the Gramineae, the cyclic hydroxamic acids 2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIBOA) and 2,4-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIMBOA) form part of the defense against insects and microbial pathogens. Five genes, Bx1 through Bx5 , are required … In the Gramineae, the cyclic hydroxamic acids 2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIBOA) and 2,4-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIMBOA) form part of the defense against insects and microbial pathogens. Five genes, Bx1 through Bx5 , are required for DIBOA biosynthesis in maize. The functions of these five genes, clustered on chromosome 4, were demonstrated in vitro. Bx1 encodes a tryptophan synthase α homolog that catalyzes the formation of indole for the production of secondary metabolites rather than tryptophan, thereby defining the branch point from primary to secondary metabolism. Bx2 through Bx5 encode cytochrome P450–dependent monooxygenases that catalyze four consecutive hydroxylations and one ring expansion to form the highly oxidized DIBOA.

Reactive Oxygen Species Play a Role in Regulating a Fungus–Perennial Ryegrass Mutualistic Interaction

2006-03-03

Aiko Tanaka , Michael J. Christensen , Daigo Takemoto +2 more

Abstract Although much is known about the signals and mechanisms that lead to pathogenic interactions between plants and fungi, comparatively little is known about fungus–plant mutualistic symbioses. We describe a … Abstract Although much is known about the signals and mechanisms that lead to pathogenic interactions between plants and fungi, comparatively little is known about fungus–plant mutualistic symbioses. We describe a novel role for reactive oxygen species (ROS) in regulating the mutualistic interaction between a clavicipitaceous fungal endophyte, Epichloë festucae, and its grass host, Lolium perenne. In wild-type associations, E. festucae grows systemically in intercellular spaces of leaves as infrequently branched hyphae parallel to the leaf axis. A screen to identify symbiotic genes isolated a fungal mutant that altered the interaction from mutualistic to antagonistic. This mutant has a single-copy plasmid insertion in the coding region of a NADPH oxidase gene, noxA. Plants infected with the noxA mutant lose apical dominance, become severely stunted, show precocious senescence, and eventually die. The fungal biomass in these associations is increased dramatically, with hyphae showing increased vacuolation. Deletion of a second NADPH oxidase gene, noxB, had no effect on the E. festucae–perennial ryegrass symbiosis. ROS accumulation was detected cytochemically in the endophyte extracellular matrix and at the interface between the extracellular matrix and host cell walls of meristematic tissue in wild-type but not in noxA mutant associations. These results demonstrate that fungal ROS production is critical in maintaining a mutualistic fungus–plant interaction.

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Impacts of Plant Symbiotic Fungi on Insect Herbivores: Mutualism in a Multitrophic Context

2008-12-10

Susan E. Hartley , Alan C. Gange

We consider how fungi that form symbiotic associations with plants interact with insect herbivores attacking the same plants. Both endophytes and mycorrhizae have significant impacts on herbivores with which they … We consider how fungi that form symbiotic associations with plants interact with insect herbivores attacking the same plants. Both endophytes and mycorrhizae have significant impacts on herbivores with which they are in relatively intimate contact, but weaker effects on those from which they are spatially separated. Generalist insects are usually adversely affected by the presence of endophytes and mycorrhizae, whereas specialist insects may often benefit. Effects on feeding guilds vary according to type of fungi; for example, aphids are often negatively affected by endophytes but respond positively to mycorrhizae, and leaf-chewers are usually negatively affected by both types of fungi. There is a strong taxonomic bias in the literature and many interactions remain little studied; laboratory studies predominate over field studies. Although some patterns emerge, there is a large amount of specificity and context dependency in the outcome of interactions, reflecting the influence of fungal and host genotype, fungal, host, and insect species, and environmental factors. Whereas some of the mechanisms underpinning these interactions are relatively well characterized, others remain unclear and await elucidation by molecular and metabolomic techniques.

Current Therapy in Equine Medicine 3

1992-07-01

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Fungal Endophytes of Grasses

1990-11-01

Keith Clay

Species distribution models (SDMs) are numerical tools that combine observations of species occurrence or abundance with environmental estimates. They are used to gain ecological and evolutionary insights and to predict … Species distribution models (SDMs) are numerical tools that combine observations of species occurrence or abundance with environmental estimates. They are used to gain ecological and evolutionary insights and to predict distributions across landscapes, ...Read More

FUNGAL ENDOPHYTES: A Continuum of Interactions with Host Plants

1998-11-01

Kari Saikkonen , Stanley H. Faeth , Marjo Helander +1 more

▪ Abstract Endophytic fungi living asymptomatically within plant tissues have been found in virtually all plant species. Endophytes are considered plant mutualists: They receive nutrition and protection from the host … ▪ Abstract Endophytic fungi living asymptomatically within plant tissues have been found in virtually all plant species. Endophytes are considered plant mutualists: They receive nutrition and protection from the host plant while the host plant may benefit from enhanced competitive abilities and increased resistance to herbivores, pathogens, and various abiotic stresses. Limited evidence also indicates that endophytes may influence population dynamics, plant community diversity, and ecosystem function. However, most of the empirical evidence for this mutualism and its ecological consequences has been based on a few agronomic grass endophytes. More recent studies suggest that endophyte-host plant interactions are variable and range from antagonistic to mutualistic. A more comprehensive view of the ecology and evolution of endophytes and host plants is needed. This article discusses how life history traits—such as fungal reproduction and pattern of infections and genotypic variation and ecological factors—influence the direction and strength of the endophyte-host plant interaction.

Handbook of Toxic Fungal Metabolites

1981-01-01

RICHARD J. COLE , Richard H. Cox

Endophyte: The Evolution of a Term, and Clarification of Its Use and Definition

1995-06-01

Dennis Wilson

For many terms in biology, giving ironclad definition which is robust over biological time, is like trying to present single, immutable, measurement for the length of the femur bone of … For many terms in biology, giving ironclad definition which is robust over biological time, is like trying to present single, immutable, measurement for the length of the femur bone of horse. You can say how long it is now, and how long is was at different stages in the evolutionary history of the animal, but you probably can not predict what it will be millennium from now. Definitions of many biological terms are the same, they evolve over time. Just as our knowledge evolves, so we change the meaning of terms to better describe what we need to say. This is very apparent when one compares terms in the scientific literature, or the unabridged Oxford dictionary of the English language, from several decades ago, to the meaning we give to the same terms today. So what about the term Endophyte? Wennstrdm (1994) argues that it is abused and misused term to the extent that its use is no longer meaningful. He further suggests that we should either use the term with its original definition, or redefine the term, but argues against the latter. Wennstrdm (1994) used Ainsworth (1971) as example of the original definition and incorrectly stated it as an organism that lives in another organism. Ainsworth (1971) actually defines endophyte as a plant living inside another organism. Endophyte owes its origin to De Barry (1866) who first coined the term. Since then it has become deeply embedded in the literature. Within the last decade, different authors have proposed range of similar, but more complex definitions (e.g., Carroll 1986, Petrini 1991, Wilson 1993). However, endophyte does not stand alone as term whose definition has changed over time, or as term whose definition biologists might not agree over. What about the definition of species? There are probably many definitions of this term. They have changed over time. Darwins concept of species is quite different to the biologists of today, and biologists might not all agree on the concept of species (Moore 1990). But does this make the term meaningless? I would argue that it does not. I will propose useful working definition of endophyte which is meaningful at our current level of understanding about the microorganisms to which we have applied the term. In addition, I will identify areas where the term has been erroneously used as synonym, and show why it is valuable term whose meaning has simply evolved to keep up with our increasing understanding of the biology.

Biology and chemistry of endophytes

2006-01-01

Huawei Zhang , Yong Song , Ren Xiang Tan

Covering: up to May 2006. Previous review: Nat. Prod. Rep., 2001, 18, 448 Covering: up to May 2006. Previous review: Nat. Prod. Rep., 2001, 18, 448

Binding Characteristics of a Radiolabeled Agonist and Antagonist at Central Nervous System Alpha Noradrenergic Receptors

1977-05-01

David C. U’Prichard , David A. Greenberg , Solomon H. Snyder

Binding of the alpha noradrenergic agonist [3H]clonidine and the alpha antagonist [3H]WB-4101 (2-([29,69-dimethoxy]phenoxyethylamino)methylbenzodioxan) to rat brain membranes exhibits characteristics expected of alpha receptors for norepinephrine. Binding of both [3H]ligands is … Binding of the alpha noradrenergic agonist [3H]clonidine and the alpha antagonist [3H]WB-4101 (2-([29,69-dimethoxy]phenoxyethylamino)methylbenzodioxan) to rat brain membranes exhibits characteristics expected of alpha receptors for norepinephrine. Binding of both [3H]ligands is saturable, with KD values of 5.8 nM and 0.48 nM for [3H]clonidine and [3H]WB-4101, respectively. A series of catecholamines inhibits the binding of both ligands with the potency order epinephrine > norepinephrine >> isoproterenol, corresponding to the relative activities of these agents at alpha receptors in the periphery. Competition for binding is stereoselective, with (-) isomers of phenylethanolamines many times more potent than the corresponding (+) isomers. Classical alpha antagonists inhibit binding of both ligands at low concentrations, but beta antagonists are much weaker. Alpha agonists are more potent in displacing [3H]clonidine than [3H]WB-4101 binding, while alpha antagonists compete more avidly for [3H]WB-4101 sites. Partial agonist ergot alkaloids display similar affinities for the binding sites of both [3H]ligands. These findings may be explained by the existence of discrete agonist and antagonist states of the alpha receptor, which preferentially bind [3H]clonidine and [3H]WB-4101, respectively. Regional variations in the binding of both [3H]ligands in the brain are not pronounced, although levels tend to be highest in hypothalamus and cerebral cortex and lowest in cerebellum. Treatment with 6-hydroxydopamine fails to decrease the binding of either [3H]ligand, suggesting that binding occurs to postsynaptic sites.

A Friendly Relationship between Endophytic Fungi and Medicinal Plants: A Systematic Review

2016-06-09

Min Jia , Ling Chen , Hailiang Xin +4 more

Endophytic fungi or endophytes exist widely inside the healthy tissues of living plants, and are important components of plant micro-ecosystems. Over the long period of evolution, some co-existing endophytes and … Endophytic fungi or endophytes exist widely inside the healthy tissues of living plants, and are important components of plant micro-ecosystems. Over the long period of evolution, some co-existing endophytes and their host plants have established a special relationship with one and another, which can significantly influence the formation of metabolic products in plants, then affect quality and quantity of crude drugs derived from medicinal plants. This paper will focus on the increasing knowledge of relationships between endophytic fungi and medicinal plants through reviewing of published research data obtained from the last 30 years. The analytical results indicate that the distribution and population structure of endophytes can be considerably affected by factors, such as the genetic background, age, and environmental conditions of their hosts. On the other hand, the endophytic fungi can also confer profound impacts on their host plants by enhancing their growth, increasing their fitness, strengthening their tolerances to abiotic and biotic stresses, and promoting their accumulation of secondary metabolites. All the changes are very important for the production of bioactive components in their hosts. Hence, it is essential to understand such relationships between endophytic fungi and their host medicinal plants. Such knowledge can be well exploited and applied for the production of better and more drugs from medicinal plants.

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Introductory Mycology

1996-01-01

Jonathan P. Dey , Constantine J. Alexopoulos , C. W. Mims +1 more

Equine exercise physiology

1982-01-01

D. H. LEACH , Richard J. Rose , David Snow

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Exploration of endophytic Bacillus -derived secondary metabolites from mosses through GC-MS profiling

2025-06-25

P Shivangi , Saumya Pandey , Afroz Alam | Plant Science Today

Bacterial metabolites produced by endophytic bacteria facilitate novel drug development for animals, humans and plants. This study aimed to identify the different secondary metabolites produced by moss-derived endophytic bacteria Bacillus … Bacterial metabolites produced by endophytic bacteria facilitate novel drug development for animals, humans and plants. This study aimed to identify the different secondary metabolites produced by moss-derived endophytic bacteria Bacillus pumilus. Endophytic bacteria were isolated from surface- sterilized mosses, screened for enzymatic activity and identified via 16S rDNA sequencing. Secondary metabolites were extracted, analyzed using FTIR for functional groups and characterized through GC-MS. Morphological, biochemical and molecular (16S rDNA) characterization was carried out for the isolates from three moss species Hymenostylium recurvirostrum, Barbula viennealis and Plagiothecium cavifolium. Each isolate can produce at least two industrially significant enzymes including esterase, cellulase, amylases and proteases. Gas chromatogram mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) of B. pumilus extract demonstrated the occurrence of the compounds such as Pentadecanoic acid, 13 methyl-, methyl ester, Benzoic acid, 2- amino-6- chloro-methyl ester, Molybdenum, tricarbonyl tris (trimethyl phosphite-P)-, 3'H-Cycloprop(1,2)-5- cholest-1-en-3-one, Benzaldehyde,4-methoxy N hexadecanoic acid (Palmitic acid), Tungsten, dicarbonyl-(ü-4-pinocarvone) [1,2-bis (dimethyl phosphine) ethane] Boronic acid, ethyl-, dimethyl ester Phenol, 2,6-bis (1,1-dimethyl ethyl)-, Stigmastan-6,22-dien, 3,5-dihydro, Phthalic acid, 2TMS derivative Prostaglandin D(2), O, O'-bis (trimethylsilyl)-, trimethylsilyl ester. These volatile organic compounds hold the potential as favorable candidates for advancing pharmaceutics and agriculture industries.

Multi-locus GWAS analysis identifies genomic regions associated with resistance to ergot (Claviceps africana) in sorghum

2025-06-23

Dejene Kebede , Patrick Rubaihayo , G. Tusiime +6 more | PLoS ONE

Deployment of resistant genotypes is one of the major components of ergot disease management in sorghum. Identification of genomic regions and candidate genes associated with resistance to ergot is a … Deployment of resistant genotypes is one of the major components of ergot disease management in sorghum. Identification of genomic regions and candidate genes associated with resistance to ergot is a key step to facilitate sorghum breeding for resistance to ergot. The objective of this study was to identify genomic regions associated with resistance to ergot in sorghum. A total of 330 lines from the global sorghum association panel (SAP) population genotyped with 114920 genome wide SNP markers were used in this study. The SAP was evaluated for resistance to ergot in two field trials conducted at MUARIK during the first and second seasons of 2020 and 2021, respectively. Six multi-locus genome wide association studies (ML - GWAS) methods were used to identify significant quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs). ML - GWAS analysis using SAP population detected thirty-eight significant QTNs. Further analysis identified 19 QTNs with relatively higher phenotypic effects ranging from 5-12.7%. Additionally, 47 candidate genes linked with the significant QTNs were detected. Most of the identified genes were involved in several biological processes including DNA and RNA binding, metal ion binding, regulation of transcription and translation and transduction signaling related to defense response against pathogen infections. This study contributes to the identification of significant QTNs and candidate genes associated with resistance to ergot in sorghum.

The Influence of Parent Pairs with Different Genetic Distances on the Genetic Diversity of Offspring in Strongylocentrotus intermedius

2025-06-23

Peng Liu , Xuechun Jiang , Hao Guo +7 more | Biology

To identify effective strategies for preserving the genetic diversity of Strongylocentrotus intermedius populations, this study employed 15 SSR loci and SSR-seq technology to construct three parental mating groups based on … To identify effective strategies for preserving the genetic diversity of Strongylocentrotus intermedius populations, this study employed 15 SSR loci and SSR-seq technology to construct three parental mating groups based on different genetic distances: relatively distant (0.33640), relatively close (0.13051), and mixed (0.29916). These mating groups were used to produce three corresponding offspring populations: the distant group (D), the close group (C), and the mixed group (M). A total of 150 offspring from these populations were genotyped to analyze the effects of parental genetic distance on the genetic diversity of their offspring. The results showed that the observed allele number (Na) in the D and M groups was 4.200 and 4.733, respectively, both lower than the parental family population (FP) group (5.000) but higher than the C group (3.571). The effective allele number (Ne) in the D and M groups was 2.782 and 2.728, respectively, slightly below that of the parental FP group (2.816) but greater than the C group (2.211). Similarly, the observed heterozygosity (Ho) in the D and M groups was 0.496 and 0.488, respectively, both below that of the parental FP group (0.522) but above the C group (0.447). The expected heterozygosity (He) in the D and M groups was 0.586 and 0.579, respectively, slightly lower than the parental FP group (0.595) but higher than the C group (0.487). Additionally, the polymorphism information content (PIC) in the D and M groups was 0.530 and 0.531, respectively, indicating high polymorphism, although slightly lower than the parental FP group (0.546) and significantly higher than the C group (0.438). These findings indicate that the genetic diversity of all the three offspring populations declined to varying degrees compared to the parental population, with the C group experiencing the most severe reduction. In contrast, the D and M groups maintained comparably higher levels of genetic diversity, which were comparable to each other. This study underscores the importance of increasing the genetic distance between parents or adopting mixed mating strategies to sustain genetic diversity in breeding populations. These approaches are recommended for future breeding programs to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainability of genetic resources.

Foliar fungal endophyte triggers host ecophysiological and morphological responses to drought and waterlogging

2025-06-23

C. G. Decurgez , H. Schnyder , Pedro E. Gundel +4 more | Plant and Soil

The Role of Tissue Culture and Endophytes in Plant Secondary Metabolites Synthesis in Changing Environmental Conditions

2025-06-20

Sabaha Tahseen , Zishan Ahmad , Anwar Shahzad +2 more | Apple Academic Press eBooks

Foliar Epichloë gansuensis Endophyte and Root-Originated Bacillus subtilis LZU7 Increases Biomass Accumulation and Synergistically Improve Nitrogen Fixation in Achnatherum inebrians

2025-06-20

Yuanyuan Jin , Zhenjiang Chen , Kamran Malik +1 more | Journal of Fungi

Although drunken horse grass (Achnatherum inebrians) can be simultaneously infected by the foliar endophyte Epichloë gansuensis and colonized by Bacillus subtilis, it remains unclear whether Epichloë endophyte symbiosis influences B. … Although drunken horse grass (Achnatherum inebrians) can be simultaneously infected by the foliar endophyte Epichloë gansuensis and colonized by Bacillus subtilis, it remains unclear whether Epichloë endophyte symbiosis influences B. subtilis colonization, as well as how their interaction affects nitrogen fixation and assimilation. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether E. gansuensis endophyte infection facilitates the colonization of B. subtilis in the roots of host plants, with a focus on understanding the interaction effects of the E. gansuensis endophyte and B. subtilis on plant growth and nutrient absorption. In this study, we measured the colony growth rate of B. subtilis LZU7 when co-cultured with E. gansuensis strains. In addition to an in vitro test, we investigated the root colonization of Epichloë endophyte-infected plants (E+) and Epichloë endophyte-free plants (E−) with the GFP-tagged B. subtilis LZU7 in an inoculation test. Furthermore, we evaluated the interactions between E. gansuensis endophyte symbiosis and B. subtilis LZU7 colonization on the dry weight, nitrogen fixation, nitrogen converting-enzyme activity, and nutrients for E+ and E− plants by labeling with 15N2. The results showed that the growth rates of B. subtilis LZU7 were altered and increased in a co-culture with the E. gansuensis endophyte. A significantly greater colonization of GFP-tagged B. subtilis LZU7 was detected in the roots of E+ plants compared with the roots of E− plants, suggesting that E. gansuensis endophyte symbiosis enhances the colonization of beneficial microorganisms. The combination of E. gansuensis endophyte symbiosis and B. subtilis LZU7 inoculation significantly altered the expression of the nitrogenase (nifH) gene, thereby promoting increased biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). The E. gansuensis endophyte infection and inoculation with B. subtilis LZU7 significantly increased δ15NAir in plants. Co-inoculation with the E. gansuensis endophyte and B. subtilis LZU7 significantly elevated NH4+ accumulation in the roots, depleted the NH4+ availability in the surrounding soil, and showed no measurable impact on the foliar NH4+ content. The observed alterations in the NH4+ content were linked to nitrogen-fixing microorganisms that promoted nitrogen fixation, thereby enhancing nitrogen uptake and contributing to greater biomass production in A. inebrians. Our findings highlighted the fact that a foliar symbiosis with the E. gansuensis endophyte enhances the recruitment of beneficial bacteria, and that the resulting interaction significantly impacts nitrogen fixation, assimilation, and allocation in host plants.

Phenotypic traits in natural perennial ryegrass populations and relations to climate conditions at sites of origins across Europe

2025-06-19

Silvia Bachmann , Mareike Kavka , Anna M. Roschanski +3 more | Genetic Resources

Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is one of the most important forage grass species in temperate climates. However, natural perennial ryegrass populations have been exploited to only a limited extent … Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is one of the most important forage grass species in temperate climates. However, natural perennial ryegrass populations have been exploited to only a limited extent by breeders. Therefore, 41 ecotypic Lolium perenne populations collected across Europe were studied for their agronomic performance in a 3-year common garden experiment located in north-eastern Germany (Poel Island, Mecklenburg Western Pomerania). Agronomic performances were evaluated on 30 plants per population for 11 traits related to forage value and environmental adaptation. Population means for studied traits were correlated to the values of climate variables at their collection sites. Populations clearly differed in their phenotypic performance, and eight populations originating from Belgium, France and Germany outperformed the other populations by showing the lowest winter damage, strongest spring growth and regrowth capacity after cuts and low disease susceptibility. Specifically, in the first experimental year, trait performances, in particular winter damage, spring growth and heading date, were related to the local climate at the site of origin of populations. Acclimation to the climate conditions at the experimental site might explain why these correlations were less pronounced in the second and third experimental years. The characterized populations might now be considered to improve specific traits in breeding.

Development and validation of an extraction method using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for the determination of ergot alkaloids in wheat

2025-06-16

Cristiane Rosa da Silva , Cristina Tonial Simões , Isadora Fabris Laber +4 more | Food Chemistry

Spatial Ratio of Two Fungal Genotypes Content of Naematelia aurantialba and Stereum hirsutum in Nutritional Growth Substrate and Fruiting Bodies Reveals Their Potential Parasitic Life Cycle Characteristics

2025-06-13

Jianqiong Lan , Yongkang Zhang , Yingli Cai +7 more | Journal of Agriculture and Food Research

article review on bioactivity of secondary metabolites of endophytic fungi.

2025-06-12

Reem Farouk Elsarkasi , Gamal H. Rabie , Nashwa El‐Gazzar | Bulletin of Faculty of Science Zagazig University

Diversity and Community Composition of Endophytic Fungi of Sinopodophyllum hexandrum (Royle) Ying on the Tibetan Plateau

2025-06-12

Yi Ning , Liu Junwei , Yuan Li +4 more | Journal of Resources and Ecology

Sources of variation in foliar endophytic fungal communities in a unique bog system, Hokkaido, Japan

2025-06-03

Ayuka Iwakiri , Toshiyuki Nakagawa , Norihisa Matsushita +2 more | Fungal ecology

The relationships among alkaloid production, fungal biomass, and host genetics in the Tall Fescue-Epichloe symbiosis

2025-06-02

Darrian Talamantes , Ceib Phillips , Carolyn A. Young +1 more | bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory)

Abstract Tall fescue ( Lolium arundinaceum ) is an important forage and turf grass that covers 35 million acres (140,000 square kilometers) in the transition zone of the southeastern United … Abstract Tall fescue ( Lolium arundinaceum ) is an important forage and turf grass that covers 35 million acres (140,000 square kilometers) in the transition zone of the southeastern United States. Most tall fescue in the US is infected with a symbiotic fungus, Epichloë coenophiala , which confers biotic and abiotic stress tolerance for the plant but also produces toxic alkaloids that harm livestock. Although there has been prior evidence that the grass host can influence alkaloid production levels, these have never been precisely quantified. Here, we report on testing alkaloid production and relative fungal biomass on >1000 genetically distinct tall fescue plants. We find that these two traits are weakly correlated, and that both show evidence of moderate to high influence by the host genome. Genome-wide association find only a single marginally significant hit, however, implying that any genetic control by the host is spread among a large number of genes. These results indicate that the host plant exerts moderate influence on these endophytic traits, that the two are largely independent of each other, and that the host’s influence is likely due to a large number of genes of small effect. These results have relevance for breeding tall fescue for forage and turf production, and especially for optimizing the endophyte relationship for tall fescue management.

Agronomic responses of tall fescue interseeded with crabgrass and buckhorn plantain

2025-06-01

Felipe Fonseca Nassar , R. Silva , Renata La Guardia Nave +1 more | Crop Forage & Turfgrass Management

Abstract Tall fescue [ Schedonorus arundinaceus (Schreb.) Dumort.; TF] is widely used in temperate pastures, but its production and nutritive value may be improved through the interseeding of complementary species … Abstract Tall fescue [ Schedonorus arundinaceus (Schreb.) Dumort.; TF] is widely used in temperate pastures, but its production and nutritive value may be improved through the interseeding of complementary species such as crabgrass ( Digitaria sanguinalis L.; CG) and buckhorn plantain ( Plantago lanceolata L.; PL). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of TF in monoculture, TF+CG, TF+PL, and TF+CG+PL during four harvests, focusing on botanical composition, forage mass (FM), and nutritive value in Spring Hill for 2 years. Weed proportion varied throughout the study, but it was lowest (∼20%) in the TF+CG and TF+CG+PL treatments due to the increased proportion of CG observed during the third (24%) and fourth (61%) harvests. In 2022, the TF+PL and TF+CG treatments showed greater FM (2041 and 1958 dry matter [DM] lbs acre −1 , respectively). In 2023, the TF+CG+PL treatment recorded the lowest FM (1673 DM lbs ac −1 ) compared to the other treatments (∼1746 DM lbs acre −1 ). The fourth harvest showed the greatest FM in 2022 (2372 DM lbs acre −1 ), and in 2023, both the first and fourth harvests produced the greatest FM (2154 and 1947 DM lbs acre −1 , respectively). Overall, there were few differences in nutritive value across treatments; however, the third harvest in both years showed greater crude protein concentration (∼14.9%) and increased neutral detergent fiber digestibility in 2022 (34.7%), with no significant differences in 2023. This study highlights the benefits of interseeding plant species with diverse traits into forage systems to enhance biodiversity. Among the species tested, CG demonstrated superior qualities, including effective weed suppression, greater FM, and improved nutritive value.

Genomics of plant-associated fungi: research progress and highlights in forage crops

2025-06-01

Muhammad Abdullah Akber , Yuxing Cui , Jiacheng Zhang +1 more | Plant Science

Sophisticated crosstalk of tryptophan-derived metabolites in plant stress responses

2025-06-01

Shuang Wang , Xia Zhang , Dao-Hong Gong +6 more | Plant Communications

Plants are continuously threatened by numerous stresses that cause detrimental damage to plant health and constrain crop productivity worldwide. Metabolic regulation, hence an important tool to regulate the stress tolerance … Plants are continuously threatened by numerous stresses that cause detrimental damage to plant health and constrain crop productivity worldwide. Metabolic regulation, hence an important tool to regulate the stress tolerance of plants. Tryptophan, as a precursor of various plant natural products, including auxin, melatonin and glucosinolates, plays crucial roles in supporting plant health. To date, remarkable progress has been made in exploring the metabolism of tryptophan, particularly its involvement in enhancing plant stress tolerance. However, there is still a lack of systematic discussion on the crosstalk manipulation of tryptophan metabolites for protecting plants from stresses. Here, we attempt to dive into the tryptophan metabolism and its related crosstalk regulation under stresses. We provide an overview of the biosynthesis and biofunctions of tryptophan metabolites with a main focus on the crosstalk manipulation of tryptophan metabolites in plant stress resistance. The perspective applications of using tryptophan metabolism under stresses are also analyzed. This work endeavors to construct a fundamental framework regarding the regulatory role of tryptophan metabolites on plant health and related mechanisms in sustainable agriculture.

From Least Concerned to Endangered? An integrated approach to determine the distribution, suitable habitat and future of Dryophytes immaculatus

2025-05-30

Amaël Borzée , Xiaoli Zhang , Vishal Kumar Prasad +7 more | Research Square (Research Square)

<title>Abstract</title> <bold>Background</bold> The immaculate treefrogs, <italic>Dryophytes immaculatus</italic>, were reported to be abundant in the plains of southern Jiangsu, China, until the 1980s. However, the species has only scarcely been seen … <title>Abstract</title> <bold>Background</bold> The immaculate treefrogs, <italic>Dryophytes immaculatus</italic>, were reported to be abundant in the plains of southern Jiangsu, China, until the 1980s. However, the species has only scarcely been seen since the beginning of the century. <bold>Results</bold> First, we conducted surveys between 2017 and 2024 at more than 6000 independent sites to determine the occurrence of the species, conducted citizen science surveys resulting in more than 1300 entries to determine the occurrence of the species, and questioned farmers, when possible, about the presence of the species. We detected <italic>Dryophytes immaculatus</italic> at 207 independent sites, managed to confirm the presence of the species at an additional 11 independent sites based on citizen science data and confirmed its local extinction at eight additional sites. Next, based on the accumulated data, we developed a suite of ecological models, including some with putative absence, to determine the current suitable habitat for <italic>D. immaculatus.</italic> Finally, we also built ecological models based on climate change scenarios. The ecological models confirmed the habitat to be suitable in an area marginally broader than the one where the species was found, and the climate change scenarios highlighted a shift in the location of the suitable habitat for all scenarios and time periods tested, with a weak overlap with the current distribution of the species. Based on the data accumulated, we could also follow the categories and criteria of the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and we suggested for the species to be listed as Endangered under both criteria B2ab(i,ii,iii,v) based on geographic range, and C2a(i) based on the small and declining population size. <bold>Conclusion</bold> The range of <italic>D. immaculatus</italic> has contracted over the last decades, at a speed high enough for people sharing their land with the species to remember them, and the habitat suitable for the species is further declining, and predicted to entirely collapse in all future climatic scenarios. While not Critically Endangered yet, <italic>D. immaculatus</italic> is in need of conservation actions, especially to prevent future decline in habitat quality.

10 years of advancing diversity within the Mycological Society of America

2025-05-28

MSAD | IMA Fungus

Like most Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, mycology has been dominated by white male scientists, while representation of marginalised groups (e.g., women, persons from different racial and ethnic … Like most Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, mycology has been dominated by white male scientists, while representation of marginalised groups (e.g., women, persons from different racial and ethnic groups, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community) remains low. Here, we discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion in mycology and report on the last decade's efforts to improve diversity in this field. We highlight changes and initiatives implemented by the Mycological Society of America and assess their success. We conclude by making recommendations for the next steps required to achieve non-discrimination and balanced representation in mycology.

Mitochondrial protein FgDML1 regulates DON toxin biosynthesis and cyazofamid sensitivity inFusarium graminearumby affecting mitochondrial homeostasis

2025-05-24

Chenguang Wang , Xuewei Mao , Wen‐Ming Cong +2 more

Fusarium graminearum is a global pathogen responsible for Fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat, causing substantial yield losses and producing the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON), which poses a threat to both … Fusarium graminearum is a global pathogen responsible for Fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat, causing substantial yield losses and producing the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON), which poses a threat to both human and animal health. Drosophila melanogaster Misato-Like protein (DML1) plays a critical role in regulating mitochondrial function, yet its function in filamentous fungi remains unexplored. In this study, we characterized FgDML1 in F. graminearum. FgDML1 interacts with the mitochondrial fission and fusion protein FgDnm1 to maintain mitochondrial stability, thereby positively regulating acetyl-CoA levels and ATP synthesis, which influences toxisome formation and ultimately affects DON toxin biosynthesis. Additionally, FgDML1 is involved in the regulation of toxin biosynthetic enzyme expression. In the ΔFgDML1 mutant, Complex III enzyme activity decreased, overexpression of complex III assembly factors FgQCR2, FgQCR8, and FgQCR9 may induce conformational changes in the Qi-site protein, specifically altering the sensitivity of F. graminearum to respiratory inhibitor cyazofamid not Qo-site inhibitor pyraclostrobin and other fungicides. Furthermore, the loss of FgDML1 leads to defects in nutrient utilization, as well as in asexual and sexual reproduction, and pathogenicity. In conclusion, this study identifies a novel regulatory role for FgDML1 in DON toxin biosynthesis and cyazofamid sensitivity in F. graminearum. Our study provides a theoretical framework for understanding DON biosynthesis regulation in F. graminearum and identifies potential molecular targets for FHB control.

Halotolerant Endophytic Fungi Bioformulations for Salinity Stress Mitigation

2025-05-23

Sirvan Qaderi , Naser Safaie

Dataset of the Effects of a Low Dose of Isoflavones in Beef Cattle Undergoing Tall Fescue Toxicosis

2025-05-22

J. Cordero , Kyle J McLean , Madison T. Henniger +3 more

Tall fescue toxicosis negatively impacts blood flow, elevates body temperature, and reduces beef cattle’s average daily gain (ADG). In previous studies, isoflavones have diminished the symptoms of tall fescue toxicosis … Tall fescue toxicosis negatively impacts blood flow, elevates body temperature, and reduces beef cattle’s average daily gain (ADG). In previous studies, isoflavones have diminished the symptoms of tall fescue toxicosis in ruminants. Therefore, this dataset determined the impact of low concentrations of isoflavone doses on animal vasculature, body temperature, ADG, and rumen microbial communities in beef cattle. A 21-day experiment with Angus cattle consisted of four isoflavone doses: 0 g, 2 g, 4 g, and 6 g, along with a control group. Isoflavones were mixed with 0.5 kg of dried distiller’s grains (DDGs). Daily individual rectal temperatures were recorded. Weekly blood serum was collected via coccygeal venipuncture, blood vasculature data were measured via color Doppler ultrasound, and body weight (BW) was recorded. Approximately 100 mL of rumen content was collected at the end of the trial. The pulsatility index (PI) decreased in the control group compared to the 2 g and 4 g groups (p = 0.01). Animals in the isoflavone treatment groups recorded a higher rectal temperature (p < 0.05). ADG was reduced in animals undergoing isoflavone treatments (p < 0.001). Finally, there was no impact on the rumen microbial communities (p > 0.05). Isoflavone supplementation may mitigate tall fescue toxicosis and improve animal performance at greater doses.

Eläinten rooli suomalaisessa koulutusjärjestelmässä

2025-05-20

Tuija Koivunen , Taru Konst

Artikkeli keskittyy siihen, millaista käsitystä eläimistä koulutus on viime vuosituhannen lopulla ja etenkin 2000-luvulla välittänyt, sekä siihen, miten tämä käsitys on omalta osaltaan edesauttanut ekologisten ongelmien syntyä. Näkökulma perustuu ekososiaalisen … Artikkeli keskittyy siihen, millaista käsitystä eläimistä koulutus on viime vuosituhannen lopulla ja etenkin 2000-luvulla välittänyt, sekä siihen, miten tämä käsitys on omalta osaltaan edesauttanut ekologisten ongelmien syntyä. Näkökulma perustuu ekososiaalisen sivistystavoitteen sekä kriittisen eläintutkimuksen lähtökohtiin. Artikkelissa kootaan yhteen aiempaa tutkimuskirjallisuutta ja analysoidaan sisällönanalyysin keinoin oppilaitosten 2010-luvun opetussuunnitelmia. Keskeinen tulos on, että koulutus on osaltaan vastuussa eläintuotannon merkityksestä ekologisten ongelmien synnyssä ja kehittymisessä, eläinten itseisarvon puuttumisessa sekä näkymättömässä asemassa yhteiskunnassa. Koulutus muokkaa asenteita ja suhtautumistapaa joko suoraan, välillisesti tai sivuuttamalla asian. Toisaalta koulutuksella ja oppilaitoksilla on ratkaisun avaimet käsissään, sillä tällä hetkellä korkeakouluissa, ammatillisissa oppilaitoksissa ja lukioissa opiskelevat nuoret ovat tärkeitä toimijoita ja lähitulevaisuuden päättäjiä. Siksi heille on taattava nykyistä paremmat tiedot muista eläimistä ja luonnosta sekä näiden kytköksistä niin eettisiin valintoihin, ilmastonmuutokseen kuin muihinkin ekologisiin kriiseihin. Tarkastelemalla eläinten asemaa opetuksessa eri aikoina on mahdollista havaita ja tuoda yleiseen tietoisuuteen siinä tapahtuneita muutoksia sekä lisätä historiallista syvyyttä aiheen tarkasteluun. The article focuses on the perception of animals conveyed through education and how these perceptions have contributed to the emergence of ecological problems. The perspective is grounded in the principles of ecosocial education and critical animal studies. The article synthetizes prior literature and employs qualitative content analysis to examine educational curricula in the 2010s. A key finding is that education plays a role in shaping the significance of animal production in the development of ecological problems, the absence of intrinsic value attributed to animals, and their marginalization in society. Education influences attitudes and approaches either directly, indirectly, or by neglecting the issue altogether. At the same time, education and educational institutions hold the keys to solutions, as young people currently studying in universities, vocational schools, and high schools are future actors and decision-makers. Therefore, they must be provided with better knowledge about animals, nature, and their connections to ethical choices, climate change, and other ecological crises. Examining the position of animals in education across different periods reveals historical shifts and increases the depth of understanding of this subject, while raising public awareness of these changes.

Effectiveness of Different Beer Types in Slug Trapping: A Two-Year Field Study on Arion vulgaris Moquin-Tandon and Limax maximus L.

2025-05-19

Žiga Laznik , Stanislav Trdan , Miha Ocvirk +1 more

Slugs are significant agricultural pests, causing extensive crop damage and economic losses. While chemical molluscicides are commonly used for control, concerns about their environmental impact have driven interest in alternative … Slugs are significant agricultural pests, causing extensive crop damage and economic losses. While chemical molluscicides are commonly used for control, concerns about their environmental impact have driven interest in alternative methods, including beer traps. This study evaluated the effectiveness of different beer types as attractants for slug trapping in field conditions over two consecutive years (2022–2023). Five types of beer—Union Lager, Paulaner Weissbier, BrewDog Punk IPA, Guinness Draught, and Chimay Blue—were tested alongside ethanol (10%) and a control treatment. The results demonstrated that Paulaner Weissbier and Union Lager were the most effective attractants, followed by Guinness Draught and Chimay Blue, while BrewDog Punk IPA had moderate effectiveness. Ethanol (10%) and the control treatment failed to attract slugs, confirming that volatile compounds, rather than alcohol alone, drive slug attraction. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed that Paulaner Weissbier contained high levels of isoamyl acetate and limonene, while Union Lager exhibited elevated ethyl esters, which likely contributed to their effectiveness. Environmental factors influenced slug activity, with higher temperatures correlating with increased slug capture rates, while precipitation had no significant effect. These findings highlight the role of fermentation-derived volatile compounds in slug attraction and suggest that optimizing beer traps based on beer composition and environmental conditions could improve their effectiveness as a non-chemical slug control method. Future research should explore the long-term stability of beer attractants, the potential of synthetic formulations, and alternative yeast-based attractants to enhance slug management strategies.

Impact of Low-Level Ergot Alkaloids and Endophyte Presence in Tall Fescue Grass on the Metabolome and Microbiome of Fall-Grazing Steers

2025-05-17

Ignacio Llada , Jeferson M. Lourenço , Madison M. Dycus +6 more

Fescue toxicosis (FT) is a mycotoxin-related disease caused by the ingestion of tall fescue, naturally infected with the ergot alkaloid (EA)-producing endophyte Epichloë coenophiala. Some grazing on endophyte-free (E−) or … Fescue toxicosis (FT) is a mycotoxin-related disease caused by the ingestion of tall fescue, naturally infected with the ergot alkaloid (EA)-producing endophyte Epichloë coenophiala. Some grazing on endophyte-free (E−) or non-toxic (NT), commercial endophyte-infected pastures takes place in the US as well. Earlier, we found that grazing on toxic fescue with low levels of EAs during fall affects thermoregulation, behavior, and weight gain. Building on these findings, the current study aimed to investigate how the presence of low EA-producing E+ or NT endophytes can influence animal metabolome, microbiome, and, ultimately, overall animal health. Eighteen Angus steers were placed on NT, E+, and E− fescue pastures for 28 days. Urine, rumen fluid (RF), rumen solid (RS), and feces were collected pre-exposure, and on days 2, 7, 14, 21, and 28. An untargeted high-resolution metabolomics approach was used to analyze urine and RF, while 16S rRNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to examine RF, RS, feces, and fescue plant microbiomes. While alpha- or beta-microbiota diversity across all analyzed matrices were unaffected, there were specific effects of E+ on the relative abundance of some taxa (i.e., Prevotellaceae). Additionally, E+ grazing impacted aromatic amino acid metabolism in the urine and the metabolism of lipids in both the RF and urine. In both matrices, trace amine-related metabolic features differed markedly between E+ and the other groups. Compared to the endophyte-free group, endophyte presence, whether novel or toxic, influenced amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis. These findings suggest that low-EA-producing and non-toxic endophytes in fescue have more prominent effects on the metabolome than the microbiome, and this metabolome perturbation might be associated with decreased performance and reported physiological signs of FT.

Papiliomyces sinensis (Clavicipitaceae) and Paraisaria pseudoarcta (Ophiocordycipitaceae), two new species parasitizing Lepidopteran insects from southwestern China

2025-05-15

Hui Chen , Shabana Bibi , Ling Tao +6 more

Cordycepssensu lato species are highly important for medicinal purposes and functional food nutrients. Two new species belonging to Cordyceps sensu lato are introduced, i.e., Papiliomycessinensis and Paraisariapseudoarcta. To comprehensively describe … Cordycepssensu lato species are highly important for medicinal purposes and functional food nutrients. Two new species belonging to Cordyceps sensu lato are introduced, i.e., Papiliomycessinensis and Paraisariapseudoarcta. To comprehensively describe the significance of these two species, morphological data were supplemented with phylogenetic analyses based on six loci (nrSSU, ITS, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2). Phylogenetically, Pap.sinensis is most closely related to Pap.albostromaticus and Pap.shibinensis, yet it can be distinguished from them by its larger stromata (51.3-85.7 × 3.1-3.5 vs. 37.0-58.0 × 2.5-3.0) and longer phialides (10.1-26.9 × 0.9-3.3 vs. 9.8-24.3 × 1.5-3.1). Paraisariapseudoarcta is phylogenetically sister to Par.arcta. The longer stromata (43-51 vs. 16) and larger secondary ascospores (5.6-8.3 × 1.7-3.1 vs. 2.6-4.2 × 0.5-1.3) in Par.pseudoarcta are characteristics that distinguish the two species. A thorough morphological description and phylogenetic analysis of Pap.sinensis and Par.pseudoarcta were provided. In addition, taxonomic misconceptions of Par.gracilis (Ophiocordycipitaceae) were corrected.

Exploring the role of tall fescue-endophyte association in shaping Rhopalosiphum padi host choice and reproduction and barley yellow dwarf virus transmission

2025-05-15

Shirin Parizad , Arash Rashed

Seasonal assembly of the phyllosphere fungal microbiome of a perennial grass is robust to nutrient addition

2025-05-14

Elizabeth T. Green , Charles E. Mitchell , Ignazio Carbone

The leaf microbiome plays an important role in plant health and defense. Despite its importance, how the assembly of the leaf microbial community is modified by environmental conditions such as … The leaf microbiome plays an important role in plant health and defense. Despite its importance, how the assembly of the leaf microbial community is modified by environmental conditions such as nutrient availability remains relatively uninvestigated. Soil nutrient availability may shift the outcome of microbial interactions within a host individual or influence the pool of microbes across the plant community. We hypothesized that leaf microbial diversity would increase across the season as leaves collect additional taxa, and that this seasonal assembly would be sensitive to nutrient addition. To assess this, we tracked the assembly of the fungal phyllosphere microbiome of the grass tall fescue (Lolium arundinaceum) in old-field vegetation over the growing season and experimentally tested whether the seasonality of the microbiome was modified by experimental addition of soil nutrients. Fungal diversity (Shannon diversity index, richness, and evenness) increased early in the season, with most metrics saturating before the end of the season. Community composition as measured by Bray-Curtis dissimilarity also shifted over the early and mid-growing season. Phylogeny-based machine-learning identified fungal lineages that were abundant in different seasons, linking seasonal community shifts to their evolutionary context. Nutrient addition was less important than time of season, but still significantly altered community composition and interacted with time to influence richness, with lowest richness in the low nutrient addition plots early in the season. The clear seasonality of the microbiome provides support for a dynamic phyllosphere microbiome, suggesting further studies manipulating fungal recruitment over the season. Furthermore, it highlights the robustness of seasonal assembly to variation in nutrient availability.

Usnic acid and tannic acid as inhibitors of coccidia and Clostridium perfringens: alleviating necrotic enteritis and improving intestinal health in broiler chickens

2025-05-12

Huiping Xu , Minghao Yang , Jianyang Fu +5 more

Abstract Background Necrotic enteritis (NE) in broiler chickens leads to significant economic losses in poultry production. This study examined the inhibitory effects of usnic acid and tannic acid on coccidia, … Abstract Background Necrotic enteritis (NE) in broiler chickens leads to significant economic losses in poultry production. This study examined the inhibitory effects of usnic acid and tannic acid on coccidia, sporozoite, and Clostridium perfringens and assessed their influence on growth performance and intestinal health in NE-challenged broilers through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Methods The in vitro experiment included 5 treatment groups: the negative control (NC), 2 μmol/L diclazuril (DZ), 30 μmol/L usnic acid (UA), 90 μmol/L tannic acid (TA), and 15 μmol/L usnic acid + 45 μmol/L tannic acid (UTA) groups. The in vivo experiment involved 320 broilers divided into four groups: PC (NE-challenged), SA (500 mg/kg salinomycin premix + NE-challenged), UA (300 mg/kg usnic acid + NE-challenged), and UTA (300 mg/kg usnic acid + 500 mg/kg tannic acid + NE-challenged) groups. Results In the in vitro study, the UA, TA, and UTA treatments significantly increased apoptosis in coccidian oocysts and sporozoites, lowered the mitochondrial membrane potential ( P < 0.05), and disrupted the oocyst structure compared with those in the NC group. UA and TA had inhibitory effects on C. perfringens , with the strongest inhibition observed in the UTA group. The in vivo results demonstrated that the SA group presented significantly improved growth performance on d 13, 21, and 28 ( P < 0.05), whereas the UA and UTA groups presented improvements on d 13 and 21 ( P < 0.05). The SA, UA, and UTA treatments reduced the intestinal lesion scores by d 28 and the fecal coccidian oocyst counts from d 19 to 21 ( P < 0.05). Compared with the PC group, the UA and UTA groups presented lower intestinal sIgA levels and CD8 + cell percentages ( P < 0.05), with a trend toward a reduced CD3 + cell percentage ( P = 0.069). The SA, UA, and UTA treatments significantly reduced the serum diamine oxidase activity, crypt depth, and platelet-derived growth factor levels in the intestinal mucosa while increasing the villus height to crypt depth ratio and number of goblet cells ( P < 0.05). The UTA treatment also significantly increased the acetate and butyrate concentrations in the cecum ( P < 0.05). With respect to the gut microbiota, significant changes in β diversity in the ileum and cecum were observed in the SA, UA, and UTA groups, indicating that the microbial community compositions differed among the groups. Romboutsia dominated the SA group, Bacillales dominated the UA group, and Lactobacillales and Lachnospirales dominated the UTA group in the ileal microbiota. In the cecal microbiota, Lactobacillus , Butyricicoccus , and Blautia abundances were significantly elevated in the UTA group ( P < 0.05). Conclusion Usnic acid and tannic acid induce apoptosis in coccidia and sporozoites by lowering the mitochondrial membrane potential. Both usnic acid alone and in combination with tannic acid alleviate NE-induced adverse effects in broilers by modulating intestinal immunity, altering the microbial composition, and improving intestinal barrier function. Compared with usnic acid alone, the combination of usnic acid and tannic acid had superior effects, providing a promising basis for the development of effective feed additive combinations.

Multiomics Analysis Uncovers Host-Microbiota Interactions Regulate Hybrid Vigor Traits in Geese

2025-05-10

Hongyu Ni , Yuwei Yang , Chengwen Wang +7 more

Economic hybridization represents a predominant breeding strategy for enhancing poultry quality. In this study, we bred hybrid geese (ZF) by crossing Xianghai Flying geese (FG) as paternal lines with Zi … Economic hybridization represents a predominant breeding strategy for enhancing poultry quality. In this study, we bred hybrid geese (ZF) by crossing Xianghai Flying geese (FG) as paternal lines with Zi geese (ZG) as maternal lines. ZF exhibited integrated superior traits, including increased body weight and breast muscle index, reduced abdominal fat, and improved meat quality (enhanced tenderness, deeper red meat color), with notably higher ileal villus height than parental lines. Integrated phenotypic, transcriptomic, gut microbiome and metabolomic analyses systematically revealed regulatory mechanisms underlying heterosis. The analysis showed 87 differentially expressed genes common between ZF and both parents, mainly enriched in energy metabolism and cytoskeletal and cell adhesion-related pathways. Protein-protein interaction networks revealed KDR, CS, PDHA1, IDH2, and GAPDH as key candidate genes (fold change > 2 and P < 0.0001) regulating the host phenotype. Meanwhile, ZF exhibited microbiome reconfiguration, characterized by the dominance of Bacteroides producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), along with beneficial genera such as Megamonas, Romboutsia, and Subdoligranulum. Additionally, there was a depletion of the pathogenic genus Desulfovibrio. Integrated multi-omics analyses demonstrated that host genes and microbiota interact closely, synergistically governing hybrid vigor traits. The findings provide the first theoretical basis for revealing the potential molecular mechanisms by which the host-gut microbiota interactions regulate hybrid vigor traits in geese.

Phylogenetic analyses and bioactivities of endophytic Pestalotiopsis from Amazonian Species

2025-05-08

Elissandro Fonseca dos Banhos , Antônia Queiroz Lima de Souza , Marne Carvalho de Vasconcellos +5 more

The genus Pestalotiopsis shows its potential for bioactivity applications; this potential may originate from the close relationship with its host species. In this study, we verified the efficiency of the … The genus Pestalotiopsis shows its potential for bioactivity applications; this potential may originate from the close relationship with its host species. In this study, we verified the efficiency of the ITS regions for phylogenetic analysis of Pestalotiopsis species isolated as endophytes associated with basidiomycetes. Endophytic fungal strains were isolated from the genera Gustavia, Rollinia, Euterpe, Myrcia, Arrabidaea and a species of Pinus. A part of this investigation was to evaluate the degree of proximity between the isolated strains and their hosts, suggesting that proximity to the host plant could improve the chance to produce bioactive compounds. Secondary metabolites were tested for larvicidal, cytotoxic and, antifungal activity. This work demonstrates the capacity of the genus Pestalotiopsis to produce substances with larvicidal activity against larvae (L3) of Aedes aegypti. In addition, there are other biological activities, showing that the genus is a producer of biologically active substances with potential pharmacological interest.

BIOACTIVE SECONDARY METABOLITES DERIVED FROM ENDOPHYTES: A REVIEW

2025-05-07

Shobha Singarapalle , M. ABDULLAH HARH , CHEEPURI GOWTHAM PHANINDRA +3 more

Endophytes comprise diverse bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes that reside harmlessly within plant tissues, fostering complex ecological interactions that significantly enhance plant growth, stress resilience, and disease resistance. Since their discovery … Endophytes comprise diverse bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes that reside harmlessly within plant tissues, fostering complex ecological interactions that significantly enhance plant growth, stress resilience, and disease resistance. Since their discovery in the early 19th century, endophytes have become essential for sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and advances in therapy. They generate bioactive secondary metabolites such as paclitaxel (Taxol), camptothecin, podophyllotoxin, and vincristine, critically important in cancer treatment. The varied biosynthetic pathways for metabolites like terpenoids, polyketides, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenylpropanoids emphasize the biochemical versatility of endophytes. Leveraging these bacteria biotechnologically offers a sustainable and scalable alternative to conventional plant-based extraction, addressing the growing global demand for medicinal compounds while minimizing ecological impact. This review presents a detailed analysis of endophytes' classification, ecological roles, and industrial applications, highlighting their significant contributions to advanced pharmaceutical research, sustainable agriculture, and bioremediation. Expanding research on plant-endophyte relationships may result in discovering new bioactive compounds, advancing the convergence of microbiology, biotechnology, and environmental science.

Supplementation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product to beef cows grazing fescue-based pastures and its impact on reproductive performance

2025-05-07

Vitor R G Mercadante , J.L. Stewart , Sherrie Clark +3 more

Abstract The study aimed to evaluate the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP) supplementation during the breeding season on reproductive performance of beef cows grazing fescue-dominated pastures (Festuca arundinacea). … Abstract The study aimed to evaluate the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP) supplementation during the breeding season on reproductive performance of beef cows grazing fescue-dominated pastures (Festuca arundinacea). A total of 883 multiparous suckled beef cows across eight locations were stratified by age and days postpartum (DPP) and randomly assigned to one of two treatments: 1) CON - mineral supplementation at 90 g/hd/d (n=439 cows; 13 experimental units), or 2) SCFP - mineral with 9 g SCFP (NaturSafe, Diamond V, Cedar Rapids, IA; n=444 cows; 13 experimental units). Supplementation began 21 days pre-breeding and continued through the breeding season (approx. 171 days). Cows grazed tall-fescue pastures and followed a fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) protocol (7-day CO-Synch+CIDR) with natural service and clean-up bulls for a 70-day breeding season. Pregnancy diagnoses were performed by ultrasonography at 55 days post-TAI and 40 days after the breeding season. Cow body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) were recorded at TAI (day 0) and weaning (day 150). Mineral disappearance was measured weekly. Data were analyzed using GLIMMIX for binomial data and MIXED for continuous data. Cow age and DPP did not differ (P&gt;0.10) between treatments (6.0 ± 1.0 yr and 79.7 ± 2.6 days, respectively). Mineral disappearance was similar (P=0.97) between treatments (99.2 and 99.8 ± 8.76 g/hd/d for CON and SCFP, respectively). No differences were observed (P&gt;0.10) in BW and BCS between treatments on days 0 and 150. SCFP supplementation did not affect estrus expression (63.2% vs 63.7% ± 2.6% for CON and SCFP, respectively; P=0.91), but TAI pregnancy rates were higher (P=0.025) in SCFP (65.9 ± 2.5%) compared to CON (57.9 ± 2.5%). Final pregnancy rates tended to be higher (P=0.057) for SCFP (92.9 ± 1.4%) vs CON (89.0 ± 1.4%), with no effect on calf performance (P&gt;0.10). In conclusion, SCFP supplementation during the breeding season did not influence BW or BCS but improved TAI pregnancy rates in beef cows grazing endophyte-infected tall fescue.

Fungal Endophytes: An Insight into Diversity, Stress Tolerance, Biocontrol and Plant Growth-Promoting Potentials

2025-05-07

Purusottam Majhi , Umakant Pradhan , Anunay Toppo +1 more

Enhancing Single-Cell Protein Yield Through Grass-Based Substrates: A Study of Lolium perenne and Kluyveromyces marxianus

2025-05-07

Tianyi Guo , Joshua Bode , Katrin Kuka +1 more

This study evaluated Lolium perenne press juice as a sustainable substrate for Single-Cell Protein (SCP) production using Kluyveromyces marxianus. Key fermentation parameters were systematically optimized, including microbial reduction, dilution ratios, … This study evaluated Lolium perenne press juice as a sustainable substrate for Single-Cell Protein (SCP) production using Kluyveromyces marxianus. Key fermentation parameters were systematically optimized, including microbial reduction, dilution ratios, temperature, and nutrient supplementation. Pasteurization at 75 °C preserved essential nutrients better than autoclaving, resulting in a 27.8% increase in biomass yield. A 1:2 dilution of press juice enhanced fermentation efficiency, achieving 20.2% higher biomass despite a lower initial sugar content. Cultivation at 30 °C enabled sustained substrate utilization and outperformed 40 °C fermentation, increasing final biomass by 43.4%. Nutrient supplementation with yeast extract, peptone, and glucose led to the highest biomass yield, with a 71% increase compared to unsupplemented juice. Press juice from the tetraploid variety, Explosion, consistently outperformed the diploid Honroso, especially when harvested early, reaching up to 16.62 g·L−1 biomass. Early harvests promoted faster growth, while late harvests exhibited higher biomass yield coefficients due to improved sugar-to-biomass conversion. Compared to a conventional YM medium, fermentation with L. perenne press juice achieved up to a threefold increase in biomass yield. These findings highlight the potential of grass-based substrates for efficient SCP production and demonstrate how agricultural parameters like variety and harvest timing influence both quantity and quality. The approach supports circular bioeconomy strategies by valorising underutilized biomass through microbial fermentation.

Insight into the diversity and application characters of endophytes in ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaud)

2025-05-06

Xiaomin Xu , Guang Li , Yan-Nan ZHANG +6 more

Machine learning solutions for integrating partially overlapping genetic datasets and modelling host–endophyte effects in ryegrass (Lolium) dry matter yield estimation

2025-05-06

Jiashuai Zhu , M. Michelle Malmberg , Maiko Shinozuka +5 more

Plant genetic evaluation often faces challenges due to complex genetic structures. Ryegrass ( Lolium ), a valuable species for pasture-based agriculture, exhibits heterogeneous genetic diversities among base breeding populations. Partially … Plant genetic evaluation often faces challenges due to complex genetic structures. Ryegrass ( Lolium ), a valuable species for pasture-based agriculture, exhibits heterogeneous genetic diversities among base breeding populations. Partially overlapping datasets from incompatible studies and commercial restrictions further impede outcome integration across studies, complicating the evaluation of key agricultural traits such as dry matter yield (DMY). To address these challenges: (1) we implemented a population genotyping approach to capture the genetic diversity in ryegrass base cultivars; (2) we introduced a machine learning-based strategy to integrate genetic distance matrices (GDMs) from incompatible genotyping approaches, including alignments using multidimensional scaling (MDS) and Procrustes transformation, as well as a novel evaluation strategy (BESMI) for the imputation of structural missing data. Endophytes complicate genetic evaluation by introducing additional variation in phenotypic expression. (3) We modelled the impacts of nine commercial endophytes on ryegrass DMY, enabling a more balanced estimation of untested cultivar–endophyte combinations. (4) Phylogenetic analysis provided a pseudo-pedigree relationship of the 113 ryegrass populations and revealed its associations with DMY variations. Overall, this research offers practical insights for integrating partially overlapping GDMs with structural missing data patterns and facilitates the identification of high-performing ryegrass clades. The methodological advancements—including population sequencing, MDS alignment via Procrustes transformation, and BESMI—extend beyond ryegrass applications.

Plant fibres. A solution to reduce pesticides, OTA and histamine in red and white wines

2025-05-06

Lucía Osete-Alcaraz , Encarna Gómez‐Plaza , Paula Pérez‐Porras +4 more

Dung beetle species assemblages in cattle pastures of Vermont and New York State

2025-05-03

Bryony Sands , Laurie Giroux , John W. Bruce

Abstract Dung beetles provide key ecosystem services in pasture environments. In the Northeastern U.S., dairy is the largest agricultural sector and grass-based dairy production is increasing. Despite the importance of … Abstract Dung beetles provide key ecosystem services in pasture environments. In the Northeastern U.S., dairy is the largest agricultural sector and grass-based dairy production is increasing. Despite the importance of dung beetles as beneficial pasture insects, the consequences of changes in pasture habitat with more cattle out on pasture are not well understood, nor is dung beetle species composition known for several states in Northeastern U.S. The aims of this study were to investigate dung beetle diversity and community structure on dairy pastures across Vermont and North Country, New York, and identify relevant livestock management factors that influence these dynamics. Dung baited pitfall trapping and soil health analysis were conducted on 29 grazing dairy farms using different grazing strategies and parasite management. The results reveal an abundant and diverse dung beetle community; however, the population was dominated by individuals of introduced species of European origin, particularly Colobopterus erraticus (Linnaeus, 1758; Coleoptera; Scarabaeidae) which comprised 74% of beetles collected. Native dung beetle species abundance was lower in the Northeast Kingdom of VT. Species assemblage structure differed between management practices related to parasiticide use and grazing. The soil health outcomes bulk density (0 to 50 mm), total carbon, and total nitrogen were correlated with dung beetle biodiversity indices and grazing management. The results indicate that livestock management may influence dung beetle species assemblages and strategies to support biodiversity may support soil health and nutrient cycling in the Northeast.

Evaluation of Stemona collinsiae root extracts for topical cockroach control: adulticidal, nymphicidal, and chemical distribution analysis

2025-05-01

Aurapa Sakulpanich , Anon Phayakkaphon , Korawan Ounklong +4 more

Insights into the synergistic mechanisms of citric acid in detoxifying cadmium in tall fescue

2025-05-01

Jian Cui , Wenqi Ding , Shuning Li +6 more