ENDOPHYTIC FUNGI FROM ALTERNANTHERA PUNGENS KUNTH.

Endophytes are unknown symbionts that live in plant tissues without indicating their presence. The association of endophytes with plants is well established. They not only help in water and mineral uptake but also play an important role in metabolic activities of certain plants. Other nature of endophytes is to ensure defense mechanism in plants from external forces such as mammals and birds. In present investigation about endophytes in plants, Alternanthera pungens Kunth a prostrate perennial herb commonly available along the road side forming mat like appearance was selected. It belongs to family Amarathaceae of angiosperm. Traditionally the herb is used to cure measles, headache and abdominal pain. Isolates from root, stem and leaves showed the presence of endophytes. Fungal strains like Aspergillus spp, Colletorichum spp, Alternaria spp, Fusarium spp was isolated from leaf and stem region of the herb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]