The Root Endophytic Fungus Piriformospora indica as a Bio-Hardening Agent for Tissue Cultured Plantlets

Abstract

A critical stage of micropropagation is the transfer of in vitro raised plantlets to ex vitro conditions. Transient transplant shock during the transfer of plantlets is the major reason for the high rate of mortality. Many plants usually will not recover from stunted growth, and they are often attacked by soil-borne microbes. The root endophytic fungus, Piriformospora indica has been used as a potential tool for bio-hardening in tissue culture plantlets to cope with these problems. P. indica enhance nutrient uptake, facilitate plants to survive under stress conditions and stimulate plant growth. In tissue culture plants, it helps in biological hardening by providing protection against shock of transplantation and root pathogens. Tissue culture plants inoculated with P. indica are better in terms of plant biomass and rate of survival. Therefore, P. indica with multiple beneficial traits can be used as a bio-protectant in commercial tissue culture.