Effects of endophytic fungi diversity in different coniferous species on the colonization of Sirex noctilio (Hymenoptera: Siricidae)

Diversity of endophyte communities of the host tree affects the oviposition behavior of Sirex noctilio and the growth of its symbiotic fungus Amylostereum areolatum. In this study, we evaluated the structure and distribution of endophyte communities in the host tree (Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica) of S. noctilio and eight potential host tree species in China. Overall, 1626 fungal strains were identified by using internal transcribed spacer sequencing and morphological features. Each tree species harbored a fungal endophyte community with a unique structure, with the genus Trichoderma common to different communities. The isolation and colonization rate of endophytes from Pinus tabulaeformis, followed by P. sylvestris var. mongolica, were lower than those of other species. The proportion of endophytic fungi that strongly inhibited S. noctilio and symbiotic fungus growth was significantly lower in P. tabulaeformis, P. sylvestris var. mongolica and P. yunnanensis. Further, the diversity of the endophyte communities appeared to be predominantly influenced by tree species and the region, and, to a lesser extent, by the trunk height. Collectively, the data indicated that P. tabulaeformis might be at a higher risk of invasion and colonization by S. noctilio than other trees.