Biocontrole da rizoctoniose do tomateiro pelo uso de Trichoderma orarium e T. brevicompactum

Abstract

Rhizoctonia blight, caused by Rhizoctonia solani, is one of the main diseases affecting tomato plants, causing significant production losses. Biological control using fungi of the genus Trichoderma has emerged as a sustainable alternative in the management of soil-borne phytopathogens. In this context, the present work aimed to evaluate the antagonistic potential of Trichoderma spp. isolates native to the Brazilian Cerrado in controlling tomato rhizoctonia. Initially, molecular prospecting and identification of the isolates was carried out. Subsequently, the antagonistic potential was evaluated through in vitro tests, including direct pairing, and the production of volatile and non-volatile organic compounds. Subsequently, the most promising isolates were selected for greenhouse testing, aiming to evaluate the reduction in the incidence and severity of the disease. The results demonstrated that the isolates LAFIP 006 (Trichoderma sp.) and LAFIP 007 (T. orarium) showed high antagonistic potential, standing out in the inhibition of mycelial growth of R. solani and in the significant reduction of the incidence and disease index in tomato plants. The behavior of these isolates is associated with the integrated action of multiple control mechanisms, such as antibiosis, competition, and possible induction of resistance. Therefore, it can be concluded that the isolates evaluated show potential for application in the biological management of tomato rhizoctonia, contributing to the development of more sustainable strategies in agriculture.