MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Native and Non-Native Soil and Endophytic Trichoderma spp. from Semi-Arid Sisal Fields of Brazil Are Potential Biocontrol Agents for Sisal Bole Rot Disease

Summary

Sisal plants in Brazil are being devastated by a fungal disease called bole rot. Scientists discovered that certain beneficial fungi called Trichoderma can effectively fight this disease by producing natural compounds and directly attacking the harmful fungus. These Trichoderma fungi also help the sisal plant defend itself better against infection. The research shows that using these beneficial fungi could help save Brazil’s important sisal fiber industry.

Background

Sisal bole rot caused by Aspergillus welwitschiae is the primary phytosanitary problem affecting sisal production in Brazil’s semi-arid region, causing significant losses in fiber production. Biological control using Trichoderma species presents a promising approach for managing this soil-borne fungal pathogen.

Objective

To evaluate native and non-native Trichoderma species from various ecological niches as biocontrol agents against sisal bole rot disease. The study examined mechanisms of action and efficacy of different Trichoderma isolates in controlling A. welwitschiae infection in sisal plants.

Results

Multiple Trichoderma species effectively inhibited A. welwitschiae mycelial growth by up to 70% and spore germination by 99%. In greenhouse trials, selected isolates including T. cf. asperellum, T. harzianum, T. lentiforme, T. spirale, and T. saturnisporum reduced disease incidence by 70-93% and severity by 97%. Anatomical studies showed increased cell wall thickness indicating induced plant defense responses.

Conclusion

Both native and non-native Trichoderma species from diverse ecological niches are effective biocontrol agents for sisal bole rot disease. The most efficient isolates operate through multiple mechanisms including mycoparasitism, antibiotic production, and induced plant defense responses, making them promising candidates for sustainable sisal disease management.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39728356, DOI: 10.3390/jof10120860
Scroll to Top