Exploring the role of endophytic fungi in the amelioration of drought stress in plants

Abstract

Drought is one of the environmental stresses that threaten food availability. It results in decreased crop yields and developments and diminishes overall plant health. Chemical solutions for alleviating drought stress may be harmful to the environment. Using an alternative, microorganisms help counter the effects of drought stress. Endophytes have a mutualistic relationship with the host as they provide protection and get nutrients. Fungal endophytes assist plants in countering the damaging results of drought stress by producing phytohormones and growth-promoting compounds that promote root and shoot growth and enhance crop productivity. Inoculating maize plants with endophytic fungi like Fusarium oxysporum and Penicillium sp. have a higher chance of surviving drought stress. These organisms can increase root length, allowing moisture to reach deeper into the soil. This review explores endophytic fungi's roles in alleviating drought stress's consequences on plants. More investigations should be carried out on the favourable effects of fungal endophytes in the mitigation of drought stress through pot and field inoculation.