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Biocontrol Potential of Trichoderma Ghanense and Trichoderma Citrinoviride toward Pythium aphanidermatum

Summary

Researchers identified two native Trichoderma fungi species that can protect cucumber plants from a destructive soil disease caused by Pythium. In laboratory and greenhouse tests, these beneficial fungi blocked pathogen growth and significantly improved plant survival and growth compared to untreated plants. These findings suggest these natural fungi could replace harmful chemical fungicides for protecting cucumbers and other crops.

Background

Pythium-induced damping-off of cucumber is a major constraint to cucumber production worldwide. Chemical fungicides are commonly used but have significant environmental drawbacks. This study investigated native Trichoderma isolates from rhizosphere and endosphere of native Omani plants as potential biocontrol agents.

Objective

To isolate and evaluate native Trichoderma species from plant rhizosphere and endosphere for their antagonistic activity against Pythium aphanidermatum and their ability to promote cucumber growth while controlling damping-off disease.

Results

Trichoderma ghanense showed 44.6% inhibition of P. aphanidermatum mycelial growth, while T. citrinoviride showed 31.3% inhibition. Both isolates caused morphological damage to pathogen hyphae and induced electrolyte leakage. In greenhouse trials, T. ghanense treatment resulted in over 90% survival of cucumber plants compared to 0% in control, with significant improvements in shoot length, root length, and plant biomass.

Conclusion

Trichoderma ghanense and T. citrinoviride demonstrate significant biocontrol potential against Pythium damping-off of cucumber and promote plant growth. These native Trichoderma species can be developed as environmentally safe alternatives to synthetic fungicides for managing soilborne pathogens in cucumber cultivation.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 38667955, DOI: 10.3390/jof10040284
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