Filtrados de culturas de fungos endofíticos isolados de folhas de Copaifera oblongifolia (Fabaceae) afetam diferentemente a germinação e o desenvolvimento de plântulas

Abstract

Interactions between endophytic fungi (EFs) and their host plants range from positive to neutral to negative. The results of such interactions can vary depending on the organ of the infected host plant. Endophytic fungi isolated from the leaves of some species of plants have potential for use as agents to inhibit seed germination and control invasive plants. The objectives of this study were to identify EFs present in the leaves of Copaifera oblongifolia and to evaluate the role of these fungi in seed germination and seedling development. A total of 11 species of EFs were isolated, which were identified using ribosomal sequencing (ITS-1-2). The isolated species of EFs are generalists and are transmitted horizontally, since the seeds of C. oblongifolia do not possess EFs. Laboratory tests revealed that these fungal isolates affect seed germination and seedling development of C. oblongifolia. The species Curvularia intermedia, Neofusicoccum parvum, Pseudofusicoccum stromaticum and Phomopsis sp. negatively affected germination, with N. parvum standing out for its negative effects on germination and seedling survival. In addition, Cochliobolus intermedius negatively affected seedling development. Thus, the combined use of N. parvum and C. intermedius, or their possible chemicals, in the control of invasive plants deserves attention from future studies.