Functions of novel symbiotic fungus - Piriformospora indica

Abstract

A unique endophytic fungus, Piriformospora indica, isolated from the hot Thar desert, shows beneficial symbiotic associations with a wide range of host plants. This fungus promotes growth of the host plant in terms of seed germination, seedling growth, early flowering, enhanced fruiting and increase in the content of value addition products e.g. secondary metabolites. One of the possible mechanisms which explain these benefits is fungus-facilitated increase in the uptake of nutrients and minerals. Fungal inoculation also protects the plant from various abiotic and biotic stresses. Although the fungus was isolated from hot sand dunes, it equally works in the cold deserts of Leh-Ladakh. The interaction of this root endophyte with other Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria was also investigated. To enhance the shelf life of the fungus and for its wide application by the farmers, a powder formulation has been developed with the registered trademark, Rootonic. The formulation has shown a very positive impact on plant productivity during field trials in Northern India. © Printed in India.