The Endophytic Trichoderma hamatum Isolate DIS 219b Enhances Seedling Growth and Delays the Onset of Drought Stress in Theobroma cacao

摘要: Theobroma cacao (cacao) is a tropical understory tree with sensitivity to drought. Cacao responds drought by decreases in net photosynthesis, PS II efficiency, stomatal conductance, water potential and changes leaf florescence. Drought also alters gene expression as well glucose free amino acid content. In recent years an incredible diversity of fungal endophytes has been identified association cacao. These are being studied for the benefits they provide including tolerance biotic abiotic stresses. During establishment endophytic between both plant altered. The Trichoderma hamatum isolate DIS 219b delays onset stress This delay manifests itself through enhanced root growth, maintenance potential, PSII concentrations, drought-induced expression. adapt each other this adaptation may contribute observed growth promotion stress. increase thought uptake availability, delaying time point where supply becomes limiting occurs.