Desert endophytic fungi improve reproductive, morphological, biochemical, yield and fruit quality characteristics of tomato under drought stress

Purpose Crops are increasingly affected by drought; hence, the current study explored potential role of three desert endophytic fungi, Aspergillus fumigatus , terreus and Talaromyces variabilis in conferring drought tolerance tomato plants. Design/methodology/approach Preserved fungi from a Rhazya stricta plant were adopted to obtain required fungal treatment; tomatoes received treatments directly plastic trays subsequently pots. Drought was applied using 15% PEG-6000 at two stages: flowering fruiting. The following parameters measured: pollen sterility, growth characteristics, morphological analysis biochemical analysis, including proline, gibberellic acid (GA3) chlorophyll measurements; thus, data analyzed statistically SPSS software. Findings All endophytes significantly promoted viability yield under stressed nonstressed conditions. Interestingly, these enhanced number trichomes stress fruit quality. colonized plants accumulated high proline level but lower than un-inoculated Also, significant rise characteristics observed A. normal Moreover, both raised GA3 levels drought-stressed Also carotenoid contents stress. Fruit T. . Originality/value present provide impressive benefits their host Consequently, they represent valuable sources as sustainable environmentally friendly alternatives mitigate