Viability of endophytic fungus in different perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) varieties kept in different storage conditions : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand
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Date
2017
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Massey University
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Abstract
Epichloë endophytes form symbiotic relationships with cool-season grasses of the Pooideae family and are known to synthesise a range of bio-protective alkaloids. These alkaloids can provide the grass host with benefits for greater survival including; deterrence of herbivorous pests, increased persistence, better livestock health and protection from abiotic stressors. The commercialisation of novel endophytes is on the increase, and it is important to ensure the survival of the endophyte is maintained so their benefits can be realised.
This study examined the effects of different storage conditions on the viability of three commercial novel endophytes (AR1, AR37 and NEA2/6) and one pre-commercial novel endophyte (815). The different storage conditions were the top of a warehouse, the bottom of a warehouse and a temperature and humidity controlled cool store to simulate current commercial seed storage environments.
The viability of different endophytes decreases independently of grass seed germination (p = NS) however there are many factors influencing the endophyte survival. Over the one year storage period there were significant interactions between endophyte x ploidy (host), endophyte x location and endophyte x ploidy (host) x location. The pre-commercial endophyte, 815, had the largest reduction in viable endophyte when stored outside of the controlled cool store dropping 70 percentage points at the top of the warehouse, compared with AR37 (12 percentage points), AR1 (16 percentage points), and NEA2/6 (46 percentage points) (p<.001, LSD = 15.9). In the cool store there was no significant decrease in any of the treatments.
As more novel endophyte/grass combinations are released for commercial sale it is important to test each for compatibility and performance post-storage. The results of this study recommend controlled low-temperature, low-humidity storage to maintain endophyte viability.
Keywords: Endophyte, Epichloë, perennial ryegrass, Lolium perenne, storage
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Endophytic fungi, Epichloë, Fungi spores, Lolium perenne, Perennial ryegrass, Seeds, Storage, Endophyte, Viability, Research Subject Categories::FORESTRY, AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES and LANDSCAPE PLANNING::Plant production::Agronomy