Survival and Population Dynamics of Trichoderma sp. Under Field Conditions at Mangalpur, Chitwan

Abstract

The antagonist fungi Trichoderma are effective bio-control agents against various soil-borne plant pathogens. Trichoderma species thrive well in soil and decompose organic matter. A high soil population is necessary for pathogen control. However, limited information exists on how different crop residues influence Trichoderma proliferation and survival in field conditions. An experiment was conducted aiming to study the survival and population dynamics of Trichoderma on various crop residues. Trichoderma sp. was isolated from agricultural land and mass-cultured on a rice husk-rice bran mixture. Field plots were established in a randomized complete block design with different crop residues (rice, wheat, maize, soybean, finger millet, lentil, and bagasse) in June 2021. Trichoderma inoculum was applied on fallow land, and soil samples were collected monthly for six months to assess the fungal population. Results revealed significant effects   of crop residues on Trichoderma populations. Rice straw supported the highest population densities over six months period. Over time, populations declined, with significant differences observed between treatments. The study underscores the importance of crop residue management in maintaining soil Trichoderma populations for optimizing their use as biocontrol agents.  (P<0.05) of crop residues on Trichoderma populations. Rice straw supported the highest population densities over six months period. Over time, populations declined, with significant differences observed between treatments. The study underscores the importance of crop residue management in maintaining soil Trichoderma populations for optimizing their use as biocontrol agents.