[Campbell Biology P.716] Which statement accurately describes fungal endophytes and their ty... | Practice Question

Which statement accurately describes fungal endophytes and their typical benefits to host plants?

  • A: Fungal endophytes are pathogenic fungi that cause disease in plants, primarily benefiting the fungus.
  • B: Fungal endophytes are symbiotic fungi that live inside plant parts without causing harm, often producing toxins to deter herbivores or increasing stress tolerance.
  • C: Fungal endophytes are soil-dwelling fungi that form mycorrhizal associations with plant roots, exchanging nutrients.
  • D: Fungal endophytes are strictly ascomycetes that live on the surface of plant leaves, providing nitrogen fixation.

Explanation

As stated in the 'Fungus-Plant Mutualisms' section, 'All plant species studied to date appear to harbor symbiotic endophytes, fungi or bacteria that live inside leaves or other plant parts without causing harm.' It further mentions that they benefit plants 'by making toxins that deter herbivores or by increasing host plant tolerance of heat, drought, or heavy metals.'