Phenological and Fungal Interactions of Malesherbia auristipulata Ricardi (Passifloraceae) in the Atacama Desert: Adaptations and Conservation in an Extreme Ecosystem

Malesherbia auristipulata is an endemic plant species of the Atacama Desert, with unique morphological and physiological adaptations. This research was conducted at Cuesta El Águila, Arica and Parinacota Region, Chile. Adult and juvenile plants were monitored, recording their growth, flowering, and fruiting phases. Additionally, plant community species were identified. For the study of endophytic mycoflora, samples of seeds, roots, stems, and leaves were collected, disinfected, and cultivated in specific media. The isolated fungi were analyzed morphologically and molecularly, determining their distribution in different plant organs. The diversity of endophytic fungi associated with M. auristipulata and the associated fungal community was determined. The presence of endophytic fungi varied depending on the organ studied, suggesting dynamic interactions in the structure of its fungal community. Among the identified endophytic fungi, Alternaria sorghi, A. alstroemeriae, and Fusarium nurragi stand out for their presence in the root and stem of the plant. Of particular interest is the presence of F. circinatum in the leaves. This study provides valuable information for the conservation of M. auristipulata and other organisms in the Atacama Desert, highlighting the importance of ecological interactions in the resilience of plants to extreme environmental conditions.