Screening of Trichoderma spp. for biofertilizer and biocontrol potential in vitro

Agricultural yields can be significantly increased by using Plant Growth Promoting Microorganism (PGPMs).Trichoderma spp., which support plant growth, have been studied as soil microorganisms for many years.This study investigated the PGPM properties of 62 Trichoderma species.The properties examined included antagonistic effects against phytopathogens; lytic enzyme activities (β-1,3-glucanase, chitinase, protease, and cellulase); siderophore and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production; and phosphate solubility and potassium mobilization capabilities.Therefore, this study aimed to specify the biofertilizer and biocontrol properties of Trichoderma spp. that are candidates for use in agriculture.Out of the 62 Trichoderma spp.examined, 62.90% exhibited chitinase activity, 83.87% β-1,3-glucanase activity, and all of the strains showed cellulase and protease production.Furthermore, 40 strains produced siderophores, all tested positive for IAA production, and 30 strains were able to solubilize potassium and 58 strains were similarly effective in phosphate solubilization.Trichoderma species exhibited inhibition rates ranging from 0-87.92% against Botrytis cinerea, 21.75-86.25%against Fusarium solani, and 17.64-91.17%against Rhizoctonia solani.Two Trichoderma koningiopsis species and one Trichoderma harzianum species exhibiting high PGPF activity were identified.The microbial fertilizer and biological control properties of Trichoderma species molecularly identified in this study show promise for biotechnological applications to reduce chemical inputs in agricultural production.