Endophytes

Endophytes are bacteria or fungi that live inside the tissues of plants without causing harm. They can be found in various parts of the plant, such as leaves or roots. These microorganisms can help plants by enhancing their growth, boosting their resistance to diseases, and improving their ability to tolerate environmental stresses, like drought. In return, plants provide endophytes with nutrients and a safe environment to thrive. This mutually beneficial relationship contributes to the overall health and resilience of ecosystems, making endophytes an important focus in agricultural and environmental research.