Endophytic Fungi of maize seeds from heavy metal contaminated and non contminated sites

This study investigates the endophytic diversity of maize seeds collected from heavy metal-contaminated and non-contaminated sites. By utilizing Illumina sequencing, we aim to identify the microbial communities present within the seeds and assess how heavy metal exposure influences endophyte diversity. The findings will contribute to understanding the ecological roles of endophytes in plants exposed to environmental stressors and may inform future agricultural practices in contaminated areas.