Effect of Age and Tree Tissue on Endophytic Fungi Presence, Nutrient Content and Morphological Characteristics of Plane Trees

Fungal endophytes are microorganisms that associate with healthy plant tissues, persisting without causing diseases symptoms in the host. These fungi improve the plant’s ability to withstand environmental stresses, resistance to pathogens, herbivores and provide increased nutrient absorption and improve plant growth. The main goal of this research was to characterize fungal endophytes in plane trees and study the relationship between presence of endophyte with morphological characteristics of plane trees and nutrient elements of leaves. Healthy tissues of plane tree (shoots, bark and leaves) from 21 young and 19 age-old trees were collected. Approximate age and height were determined and greenness and nutrient elements concentration were also evaluated. Shoots and bark pieces were surface sterilized and placed in Petri dishes containing PDA. The results showed endophytic frequency was greater in age-old trees (60.04%) than young trees (39.96%). Endophytes had positive correlations with Fe and K concentration in leaves and height and circumference of trees. Fungal endophytes may act as plant fertilizers by enhancing nutrient elements assimilation and may affect survival of plane trees.