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Thomas Gianfagna
My research focuses on the fungal endophytes in turf and pasture grasses. Endophytic fungi are present in plants but are not pathogenic. In fact, they may be symbiotic. The endophytes take up food and nutrients from the plant, but provide insect resistance and environmental stress tolerance to the plant. Unfortunately, they also make alkaloids that are toxic horses and grazing animals.
The Center for Turfgrass Science generates and disseminates knowledge, and provides training and education in the turfgrass sciences by fostering nationally recognized multidisciplinary research; undergraduate, graduate, and continuing professional education; and service programs that support the turfgrass industry.