TRICHODERMA SP. IN THE CONTROL OF FUSARIUM SP. AND MYCOTOXINS DETECTED BY PCR

Abstract

This study aimed to isolate Trichoderma sp. strains from forest areas and evaluate their potential for direct control over the mycelial growth of Fusarium sp. and the synthesis of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON). The objective was to assess the effectiveness of these strains in combating the phytopathogen, as well as identify toxin production. The methodology involved isolating Fusarium sp. (isolates TR 01, 69, and 89) and Trichoderma sp. from a forest area near Araucaria angustifolia roots. A mycelial growth confrontation test was then conducted between the microorganisms. After seven and fifteen days of evaluation, Fusarium sp. DNA was extracted, and DON synthesis was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results indicated that the Trichoderma sp. strains demonstrated significant potential in directly controlling Fusarium sp. and reducing DON synthesis. It was concluded that Trichoderma sp. is a promising agent for biological control of phytopathogens, with effectiveness dependent on the antagonist strain and the sensitivity of the pathogen.