Potencial antagônico de isolados de Trichoderma SPP. contra Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in vitro

Abstract

The common bean is one of Brazil's major agricultural crops. However, the crop is affected by various diseases, resulting in reduced productivity. White mold, caused by the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is one of the most destructive diseases affecting the common bean, causing significant losses. In the pursuit of sustainable agriculture, biological control strategies have gained prominence. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antagonistic potential of Trichoderma spp. isolates against S. sclerotiorum to support integrated disease management strategies. The activity of six Trichoderma spp. isolates was evaluated through dual culture assays and the production of volatile metabolites (antibiosis). All evaluated isolates exhibited antagonism toward S. sclerotiorum. In the dual culture assays, isolate TR35 T. koningiopsis stood out, inhibiting 71.6% of the pathogen's mycelial growth. Regarding volatile metabolites, the T. harzianum isolate TR155 was the most effective, reducing pathogen development by 44%. The assays demonstrated differences in control capacity among the evaluated isolates, indicating that both the antagonistic effect and the mechanisms involved vary among isolates, including those belonging to the same species.