Short communication. Selection of Trichoderma spp. isolates against Rhizoctonia solani

Abstract

The aim of this work was to select regional isolates of Trichoderma spp. active in the antagonism against Rhizoctonia solani, fungal causal agent of seedling death in vegetable crops of northeast Argentina. The antagonistic activity of nine monosporic isolates of Trichoderma spp. was evaluated in dual culture and the production of non-volatile metabolites in eight of them was evaluated using the cellophane test. All isolates significantly diminished the mycelial growth of R. solani in dual culture. Isolates 1, 3, 4 and 7 were more efficient at producing non-volatile metabolites. These isolates have been selected to evaluate their antagonistic potential to reduce melon seedling death in greenhouse and brought about a significant reduction of the disease caused by R. solani. The results showed the possibility of using regional Trichoderma spp. isolates to reduce melon seedling death by R. solani in warm and wet climates in the northwest of the Corrientes province.