Chapters authored
Trichoderma as a Biocontrol Agent against Sclerotinia Stem Rot or White Mold on Soybeans in Brazil: Usage and Technology
Biological control agents are alternatives to chemical pesticides in the management of plant diseases. Currently, hundreds of bioproducts are commercially available in international market varying mainly in antagonistic microorganisms and formulation. We screened four Trichoderma-based products as to their efficacy in controlling Sclerotinia stem rot (SSR) under protected and field environments and their effect on soybean seeds’ sanity and physiological qualities. We also tested application technologies through seed microbiolization and foliar spraying to deliver the microorganisms, and their compatibility with chemical fungicides. In vitro assays showed that all Trichoderma strains were antagonistic to S. sclerotiorum evidencing hyperparasitic activity. Moreover, the bioproducts reduced fungi incidence on soybean seeds, promoted faster seedling emergence and did not hamper seeds’ vigor. Increases of 14 and 37% were registered for root length and shoot fresh weight over that of the untreated control indicating potential application of the bioproducts as soybean growth promoters. Thiophanate-methyl and procymidone were the most compatible, without drastically affecting spore germination or mycelium growth. Under field conditions, all Trichoderma strains reduced SSR incidence and increased soybean grain yield. Formulation interferes on bioproducts’ viability and efficacy deserving special attention upon development.
Part of the book: Trichoderma