Accumulation of ergopeptide alkaloids in symbiotic tall fescue grown under deficits of soil water and nitrogen fertilizer

The effects of flooding and nitrogen fertilization on ergot alkaloid production within the tall fescue-Acremonium coenophialum symbiotic interactionwere determined. The results suggest that flooding does not appreciably affect ergot alkaloid biosynthesis by the fungus. However, under moderate water deficit ergot synthesis is significantly affected by the type and rate of nitrogen available. Under drought conditions, nitrogen availability does not affect ergot biosynthesis because of decreased permeability of roots to nitrogen.