مشخصات پژوهش

Endophytic fungi are commonly found in the root endosphere and can enhance plant growth through various mechanisms. This study aimed to isolate cultivable endophytic fungi associated with the roots of Tamarix ramosissima and evaluate their plant growth-promoting properties. Thirty-five fungal endophytes belonging to the phylum Ascomycota, representing four different genera, were obtained from the endosphere of T. ramosissima: Alternaria, Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Talaromyces. These fungal endophytes showed different abilities to solubilize phosphate and produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). The isolates of T. allahabadensis (T3) and A. niger (T4) showed different efficiencies in phosphate solubilization. Almost all fungal isolates produced IAA, with the highest concentration (0.699 μg/ml) found in the isolate of F. solani (T11). Among the tested endophytes, only A. fumigatus (T15) significantly increased wheat root length (75% increase vs control, p<0.05). The extensive root system of T. ramosissima may be due to symbiosis with IAA-producing endophytic fungi, which enhance root development and water uptake in dry conditions. Additionally, these fungi can increase soil phosphorus levels, further promoting plant growth.