A trade-off between growth and defence functions is commonly observed in plants. We propose that the association of plants with Epichlo€e fungal endophytes may eliminate this trade-off. This would be a consequence of the double role of these endophytes in host plants: the stimulation of plant growth hormones (e.g. gibberellins) and the fungal production of antiherbivore alkaloids.\nWe put forward a model that integrates this dual effect of endophytes on plant growth and defence and test its predictions by means of meta-analysis of published literature. Our results support the notion that the enhanced plant resistance promoted by endophytes does not compromise plant growth. The limits and ecological benefits of this endophyte-mediated lack of plant growth – defence trade - off are discussed.
Bastías, D. A.; Gianolini, P. R.; & Gundel, P. E. (2021). Fungal endophytes can eliminate the plant growth – defence trade - off. New phytologist,230, (6),p.2105-2113
10.1111/nph.17335
Bastías, Daniel A., Gianolini, Pablo Roberto, Gundel, Pedro Emilio. 2021. "Fungal endophytes can eliminate the plant growth – defence trade - off". New phytologist 230, no.6:2105-2113.
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