Fungal endophytes: a continuum of interactions with host plants

Article Abstract:

A more comprehensive picture of the ecology and evolution of endophytes and host plants should be developed. Recent study suggests that endophyte-host plant interactions vary and range from mutualistic to antagonistic. Life history traits, among them fungal reproduction, ecological factors, genotypic variation and patterns of infections, are factors in the strength and the direction of the endophyte-host plant relationship. Endophytes are seen as plant mutualists which get protection and nutrition from a host while the host is perhaps enhanced in its competitive abilities and in greater resistance to pathogens, herbivores, and other abiotic stresses. There is some evidence that endophytes may have an effect on plant community diversity, population dynamics, and ecosystem function.

United States, Finland, World, Research, Observations, Fungi, Ecological research, Wood-decaying fungi, Host-parasite relationships, Woody plants, Mutualism (Biology), Endophytes

---

Tree-grass interactions in savannas

Article Abstract:

Simple models are unable to accurately portray the coexistence of trees and grasses in savanna areas. Savannas, or biomes that are neither grassland nor forest, are affected by a wide range of variables not expressible in models. These include the impacts of fires, browsers, grazers and clear-cutting. These influence tree recruitment, which can alter the make-up of savannas.

Analysis, Trees, Trees (Plants), Savanna ecology

---

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Community structure and positive interactions in constraining environments. Changes in plant interactions along a gradient of environmental stress
• Abstracts: Grassroots future - a conversation with Senator Tim Wirth. Losses & gains
• Abstracts: Continua and Umwelt: novel perspectives on viewing landscapes
• Abstracts: Large herbivores affect the stoichiometry of nutrients in a regenerating woodland ecosystem. Defensive traits of savanna trees-the role of shoot exposure to browsers
• Abstracts: Restoring forest cover on degraded land: three dimensional plantations. Reconstruction of forest site history in Ethiopian highlands based on (13)C natural abundance of soils

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.