Journal of Plant Pathology & Microbiology

Abstract

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides: A True Endophyte of the Endangered Tree, Cynometra travancorica in the Western Ghats

Thulasi G Pillai and Jayaraj R

Fungi form symbiotic associations with forest trees. True endophytes have been evolving with the host trees millions of years. Study was carried out to isolate and identify true endophytic fungi from the leaves of a rare tree species of Fabaceae family, Cynometra travancorica. Study was conducted in trees growing in four different forest areas of South Western Ghats in three different seasons, pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon. Twelve fungal cultures were obtained and one of the cultures was common in all the samples. Partial sequencing of genomic DNA was done for identification. The endophyte was identified as Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. This is the first report of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides as endophyte from C. travancorica. This organism can have an important role in the survival and protection of the tree against harsh environment and adverse conditions. Under favorable conditions, chances of the conversion of C. gloeosporioides as an endophyte to pathogen cannot be ruled out.