Selezione di funghi endofiti antagonisti di patogeni forestali

This research has been aimed to isolate endophytic fungi from Sardinian chestnut, cork oak and yew and to select those which have higher competitive capacities towards important pathogens (Biscogniauxia mediterranea, Diplodia corticola, Discula quercinaandCryphonectria parasitica) of forest trees.According to the obtained results, 5 antagonistic endophytes have been selected and identified on a morphological and biomolecular base:Bionectria ochroleuca, Dictyochaeta parva, Trichoderma viridescens, Trichodermasp. andPenicilliumsp.They all have shown to have a high competitive activity, which differs depending on their biological properties and metabolic versatility. The 2Trichodermaspecies have contrasted the 4 pathogens mycelial growth with different action mechanisms;B. Ochroleucahas highlighted a marked micoparasitic aptitude andPenicilliumsp. andD. Parvahave been able to inhibit at a distance the pathogens growth.Further investigations have been aimed to evaluate the antifungine and zootoxic activity of the selected endophytes organic extracts.D. Parva, being the most active, apart from representing a potential biocontrol agent of the considered pathogens, can also be a good source of bioactive secondary metabolites to be used in various sectors of industrial biotechnologies and medical-pharmaceutical fields.