Endophytic fungi in economically important plants: ecological aspects, diversity and potential biotechnological applications

The aim of the present study was to perform a review of the literature to provide a brief overview of the ecological aspects, diversity and potential biotechnological applications of endophytic fungi associated with economically important plants, such as the common bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris ), cocoa ( Theobroma cacao ) and soybean ( Glycine max ). A high diversity of fungi has been reported on the leaves, stems and other organs of such plants. Studies on this subject are of considerable importance and directly contribute to the knowledge and conservation of fungal biodiversity, especially in Neotropical areas. Furthermore, such studies can open the door to a wide range of potential uses and/or modulations of fungal microbiota with the aim of enhancing the health and productivity of plants in agricultural practices, such as promoting plant growth or the biological control of diseases caused by phytopathogenic microorganisms. These endophytic fungi also represent a valuable source for prospecting secondary metabolites for biotechnological purposes.