A research journey from epiphytic to endophytic fungi: Insights into Ecology, Diversity and Biotechnological potential

This review reveals about the shift from epiphytic to endophytic fungi based on works of my own and others, examining their ecological functions, diversity and potential applications in biotechnology.The epiphytic fungi colonize plant surface and play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and microbial diversity across the ecosystems while endophytic fungi live within the plant tissues, forming symbiotic relationships that can boost plant growth, resilience to stress and resistance to diseases.The research utilizes a comprehensive approach, combining the field observations, molecular methods, and ecological evaluations to contrast fungal populations in epiphytic and endophytic environments.The observations demonstrate unique patterns of fungal diversity, with certain species showing preferences for either space or nutrients.These findings have significant ecological implications, emphasizing the importance of comprehending fungal interactions with their host plant.Furthermore, the study identifies several fungal strains with promising biotechnological uses such as biological control agents and producers of bioactive compounds.This review not only deepens our knowledge of fungal ecology, but also showcases the potential of these organisms in sustainable farming and environmental stewardship.By examining the transition from surface to internal colonizers, the mentioned facts offer valuable insights into fungal biology and their roles in ecosystem processes and advancements in agricultural and pharma industries.