Endophytic fungi

Endophytic fungi live inside the plant without causing any damage. The relationship that the plant has with the fungus is of utmost importance, since the fungus is capable of producing bioactive compounds that give protection to its host against the attack of pathogens and pest insects, also gives them tolerance to drought, increases the biomass of the plant, among other benefits. It is also attributed the ability to secrete secondary metabolites such as terpenes, alkaloids and aromatic compounds that are used as antimicrobials, antivirals and insecticides. In recent years, for pest control, the use of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses has been implemented as a function of biological control due to its effectiveness and less damage to the environment, thus reducing the use of chemicals (insecticides). In the control of insect pests, endophyte fungi are used, because they are able to cause disease to the insect and subsequently cause its death, thanks to the spores they secrete.