• Scientists at the Bharathiar University, engaged in studying the ecology of soil microbes that colonise plant roots, have isolated a fungus that can enhance plant growth even in water deficit conditions.
• Numerous types of soil microbes colonise plant roots. Among them, Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM) are predominant and they are well-known for mobilising soil nutrients, particularly phosphorous.  
• Of many of soil microorganisms that are found associated with the plant roots, some may be disease-causing pathogens too. Sometimes two groups of soil microorganisms can be found in the same plant roots.
• Endophytic fungi live inside the plant tissue symbiotically. The researchers have identified this endophytic fungus as Nectria haematococca. The melanin pigment produced by the fungus gives its characteristic dark colourand hence it is called Dark Septate Endophytic Fungi.

Source:Downtoearth