Diversity of bryophilous fungi in desiccation-tolerance bryophyte plants

Bryophilous fungi associated with two bryophyte species in the region of delta Tamil Nadu that is, mosses Polytrichum commune and Bryum capillare (Ptychostomum capillare) were studied during winter season. These bryophytes Desiccation-Tolerance Bryophytes plant (DTB), ability to lose virtually all free intracellular water then recover normal function upon rehydration is one most remarkable features bryophytes. Our aims identify bryophilous fungi/ endophytic using morphological taxonomy, explore richness estimate frequency bryophytes, Nadu. We collected samples at old building wall, bricks localities on region. thus identified 32 isolated from these plants tissues. In total, fungal strains belonging Ascomycetes (04), Coeleomycetes (02), Hyphomycetes (20), sterile forms Yeast like (02) Zygomycetes taxa obtained. Thus RPO diversity index suggest our study still underestimate endophytes because it does not provide complete samples. results recommend presence a diverse range even very limited area, those this environment. To knowledge, first report DT tropical