Unveiling the biocontrol potential of Trichoderma.

Trichoderma, a well-known fungal genus and opportunistic plant symbiont, is a quintessential alternative to chemicals with great potential to minimize disease incidence. The mycoparasitic ability along with antibiosis and induction of host immunity are the main mechanisms of biocontrol by this fungus. Fungi belonging to genus Trichoderma have been identified as potential biocontrol agents due to majority of isolated antifungal bioactive compounds. This review summarizes the biological control activity exerted by Trichoderma spp. against plant pathogenic fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes and insect pests. In addition, the research on formulations advocates that encapsulation could be a promising tool for increasing efficacy and durability of these fungi under field conditions. Further, advances in different areas of science and technology would strengthen the future research on Trichoderma-based products for its efficient use in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]