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Identification of Trichoderma spp., Their Biomanagement Against Fusarium proliferatum, and Growth Promotion of Zea mays

Summary

Researchers isolated and tested special fungi called Trichoderma that can fight crop disease-causing fungi and promote plant growth. When applied to maize plants infected with disease-causing Fusarium, the Trichoderma fungi completely eliminated the disease and made the plants grow healthier and larger. This natural approach offers farmers a chemical-free alternative to protect crops while improving plant health.

Background

Fusarium proliferatum is a globally distributed phytopathogen causing significant losses in maize production and producing harmful mycotoxins. Trichoderma species have gained attention as eco-friendly biological control agents due to their proven effectiveness and safety in combating Fusarium-induced diseases.

Objective

This study aimed to isolate and characterize Trichoderma species from various substrates using morphological and molecular methods, evaluate their biocontrol potential against Fusarium proliferatum, and assess their ability to promote maize growth.

Results

Two Trichoderma species were identified: T. afroharzianum and T. longibrachiatum, with all strains showing antagonistic effects (47.65-100% inhibition). T. afroharzianum strains AEMCTa3 and AEMCTa6 reduced disease incidence to 15.6% and 0%, respectively, while significantly improving shoot and root biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and root structure in maize plants.

Conclusion

T. afroharzianum demonstrated strong dual functionality as both a biocontrol agent against Fusarium and a plant growth promoter, supporting its use as a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides in maize cultivation. The identified secondary metabolites, including gibberellic acid and phenylacetic acid derivatives, provide molecular basis for its biocontrol and growth-promoting activities.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41003229; DOI: 10.3390/jof11090683
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