A review on the biological properties of Trichoderma spp. as a prospective biocontrol agent and biofertilizer

Abstract

The over-use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers has resulted in favoring the selection of resistant plant pathogens and the reduction of soil fertility. Eco-friendly alternatives such as the use of biocontrol agents and biofertilizers should be practiced as substitutes to the synthetic chemicals in this present day. The use of fungi such as Trichoderma species as biocontrol agents has been widely practiced in forestry and industrial agriculture. Biocontrol agents are effective against many pathogenic fungi and benefit immensely in growth, health, and productivity of plants. They are also relatively less harmful as they are obtained from natural derivatives when compared to synthetic pesticides. Likewise, biofertilizers enable nitrogen fixation, solubilization of soil phosphates, and production of plant growth substances in the soil improving the soil health and fertility. The article reviews in detail the various beneficial aspects of Trichoderma species as biocontrol agent and biofertilizers as they are claimed as an effective and successful commercial agent in controlling various plant diseases and promote plant growth.

Optimization of Plant Nutrition in Aquaponics: The Impact of Trichoderma harzianum and Bacillus mojavensis on Lettuce and Basil Yield and Mineral Status

“…Nevertheless, it would be necessary to monitor this over a longer period of time in order to see whether there is competition and the possible overgrowth of any of the species of microorganism. The experiment was conducted in an indoor vertical growing system in the Future Farming Ltd. R&D centre (Kaly 66, 49.3792886 N, 16.3515736 E, Czechia). The growing…”

“…The experiment was conducted in an indoor vertical growing system in the Future Farming Ltd. R&D centre (Kaly 66, 49.3792886 N, 16.3515736 E, Czechia). The growing system consisted of four racks, where plants were cultivated through a deep-water culture (DWC) technique.…”

“…A large amount of data, that demonstrate its positive effect on the promotion of plant growth after Trichoderma spp. inoculation, have been summarised in the literature (e.g., by Abdul-Halim et al [ 16 ]). The key mechanism of this phenomenon is that Trichoderma spp.…”

Biotechnological tools for genetic improvement of Trichoderma

“…Trichoderma, known for its remarkable adaptive capacity to diverse environmental conditions, has emerged as a promising source of metabolites and biocontrollers (Sandle, 2014). These alternatives offer effective pest and pathogen control and align with the principles of environmentally friendly and sustainable agriculture (Abdul-Halim et al, 2023). In practical terms, research has demonstrated the inhibitory activity of Trichoderma species, particularly Trichoderma asperellum and Trichoderma atroviride, against various pathogens such as Fusarium and Aspergillus.…”