Endophytic Fungi 5isolation of the endophtyes was performed during the dry months (October to
January). Chareprasert et al., (2006) investigated the seasonal variation effects
on endophyte communities into leaves of two different plants, the sampling
was done during one year (January to December). They found that the lower
number of isolates recovered from trees during the dry season. Rodrigues
(1994) suggested that, the lower number of isolates recovered during the dry
season could be related to the effects of water stress. It is known that under
water deficit, some plants may accumulate non-structural carbohydrates. This
accumulation generally leads to build up of carbon-based defences such as
tannins, making the plant less susceptible to fungal endophyte colonization
during the dry season. However, a copious studies indicated the enhancement
effect of endophytes on the host plants, these effects could be summerized by
increase biomass production, decrease stomatal conductance, and reduce
overall water loss (Elmi and West, 1995; Kannadan and Rudgers, 2008;
Rodriguez et al., 2008; Kane, 2011).
4. CLASSIFICATION OF ENDOPHYTIC FUNGI
Schaechter (2011) stated that endophytic fungi have frequently been
divided into two major groups based on differences in taxonomy, host range,
colonization transmission patterns, tissue specificity and ecological function.
Group one is the Clavicipitaceous endophytes (C-endophytes) which infect
some grasses. Group two is the Nonclavicipitaceous endophytes (NC-
endophytes). While Rodriguez et al., (2009) stated another point of view of
fungal endophytes classification, they classified them into four classes. Two
major endophytic groups (Clavicipitaceous and Nonclavicipitaceous) based on
phylogeny data and life history traits. However, they classified
nonclavicipitaceous endophytes into three functional groups based on host
colonization and transmission, in planta biodiversity and fitness benefits
conferred to hosts.
4.1. Clavicipitaceous Endophytes (Class I)
The Clavicipitaceae is a family of fungi (Hypocreales; Ascomycota)
including free living and symbiotic species associated with insects and fungi
or grasses, rushes and sedges (Bancon and White, 2000). Many of its members
produce alkaloids which are toxic to animals and humans. Clavicipitaceous