Ectomycorrhizal and Dark Septate Endophytic Fungi Synergistically Enhance Salt Tolerance of Pinus tabulaeformis via Antioxidant Defense and Ion Homeostasis

Key Points

• This research aims to investigate how ectomycorrhizal and dark septate endophytic fungi influence the salt tolerance of Pinus tabulaeformis.
• Examined the effects of ectomycorrhizal fungi and dark septate endophytes on P. tabulaeformis growth under saline conditions.
• Measured antioxidant defense mechanisms and ion homeostasis levels in the plant.
• Performed combined inoculation of fungi to assess synergistic benefits.
• Combined inoculation of fungi significantly improved salt tolerance in P. tabulaeformis.
• Antioxidant defense mechanisms were enhanced, leading to reduced stress under salt conditions.
• Ion homeostasis was effectively regulated, indicating improved nutrient uptake.