Antifungal activity of useful microorganisms against a phytopathogenic fungus on maize

Abstract

Fusarium stalk rot (FSR) caused by Fusarium verticillioides (=moniliforme) significantly affects the productivity of maize (Zea mays L.). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Trichoderma harzianum, mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus spp.), Aspergillus niger and Bacillus subtilis for biocontrol potential of FSR using dual-culture bioassays and greenhouse bioassays on maize. As a result, T. harzianum, mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus spp.), A. niger and B. subtilis showed inhibitory or reducing activities against mycelial growth of F. verticillioides in dual culture. A. niger and T. harzianum were the most effective suppressants of F. verticillioides, and B. subtilis was the least effective. Application of B. subtilis significantly reduced FSR symptoms in greenhouse-grown maize. At the end of the experiment, the spore density of biological control preparations were increased in soil/root samples. Treatments of mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus spp.), T. harzianum, A. niger and B. subtilis suppressed the development of F. verticillioides in soil. In addition, mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus spp.), T. harzianum, A. niger and B. subtilis also significantly improved the plant growth parameters. It is concluded that mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus spp.), T. harzianum, A. niger and B. subtilis have potential against FSR and these should suppress occurrence of FSR in maize-growing regions.