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Bioprospecting and mechanistic insights of Trichoderma spp. for suppression of Ganoderma-induced basal stem rot in oil palm

Summary

Scientists discovered that a fungus called Trichoderma afroharzianum can effectively fight a serious disease in oil palm trees caused by another fungus, Ganoderma. This beneficial fungus works by producing natural chemicals and enzymes that kill the harmful pathogen and also helps the plants grow better. The research shows this could be used as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for protecting oil palm plantations, especially as climate changes and farming conditions vary.

Background

Basal stem rot (BSR) caused by Ganoderma spp. is a major disease threatening global oil palm plantations, causing up to 500 million USD in annual losses. Trichoderma species have emerged as potential biocontrol agents, but their efficacy varies with strain and environmental conditions. This study investigates antagonistic Trichoderma isolates from diverse agroclimatic zones in India as sustainable alternatives to chemical management.

Objective

To bioprospect and characterize Trichoderma isolates from diverse agroecological zones of India for their biocontrol potential against Ganoderma-induced BSR in oil palm. The study aims to identify the most efficacious strains and evaluate their mechanisms of action and growth-promoting properties.

Results

T. afroharzianum UPFBK3 exhibited superior antagonism with 99.77% inhibition and produced multiple hydrolytic enzymes including chitinase, cellulase, and pectinase. A tailored Trichoderma consortium achieved 61.94% disease suppression, reduced foliar and bole severity by 48.59% and 20.22% respectively, and increased plant height and shoot fresh weight. T. afroharzianum demonstrated the broadest antimicrobial spectrum against six soil-borne pathogens.

Conclusion

T. afroharzianum emerges as a promising biocontrol agent for BSR suppression through multiple mechanisms including competitive exclusion, hyperparasitism, and pathogen inhibition. The findings support its potential for field deployment as part of an integrated, climate-resilient disease management strategy in oil palm cultivation.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Nutrition,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40709344, DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1582047
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