Antibacterial activities of fungal endophytes associated with the Philippine endemic tree, Canarium ovatum

Abstract

Fungal endophytes are sources of novel bioactive metabolites. Studies worldwide are tapping unique and interesting flora in search for endophytes that produce these metabolites. In the Philippines, there are more than 6,000 endemic plant species, one of which is the local "pili" tree (Canarium ovatum Engl.). This study investigates the occurrence of these fungal endophytes in C. ovatum and their potential in producing antibacterial metabolites. Results showed the presence of fungal endophytes in C. ovatum and that the "pili" tree is a good host for fungal endophytes regardless of geographical location. Results of the antibacterial assay showed that 10 mg/mL of the Colletotrichum sp. PFE31 crude extract exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against representative Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and spore-forming bacilli. Copyright