Arbuscular mycorrhiza-like biotechnological potential of Piriformospora indica, which promotes the growth of Adhatoda vasica Nees

ABSTRACT

We report the growth promoting potential of Piriformospora indica, which is a newly discovered arbuscular mycorrhiza-like fungus. It is a facultative symbiont and unlike arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, it can be cultured in vitro. Adhatoda vasica is a medicinal plant. Rapid proliferation of roots was recorded in A. vasica withan important root colonization estimated to 95 percent after 6 months. P. indica improved growth of A. vasica. This association forms a new host-symbiont combination.