THE PROSPECTS OF EASTERN SIBERIA Trichoderma FUNGI FOR PHYTOPATHO-GEN CONTROL

Background. Throughout the world, the losses of agricultural products are associated with plant diseases, most often caused by microscopic fungi. Among the most effective methods to control these fungi is the use of various chemicals fungicides. However, the overutilization of such fungicides can induce negative implications. To address this challenge, alternatives methods of control using antagonist microbes are being developed. Of particular interest are fungi of the Trichoderma genus, which can be employed as biopreparations to protect crops against a number of diseases. Purpose. The study of the antagonistic interactions of two micromycetes of the Trichoderma genus, isolated from wood cuts in Eastern Siberia, with phytopathogenic fungi. Materials and methods. The taxonomic affiliation of the isolated fungi was determined by macro- and micromorphological features, using a Primo Star light microscope (Zeiss, Germany). Molecular genetic analysis was carried out on the basis of the All-Russian Collection of Industrial Microorganisms (Moscow) using the sequence of ribosomal genes (26-sRNA). The antagonistic activity of Trichoderma against phytopathogens was tested in vitro by the method of counter cultures in 5 replicates. Results. According to morphological and molecular genetic characteristics, the isolated strains were identified to the species Trichoderma atroviride and Trichoderma harzianum. It was shown that the isolated Trichoderma strains efficiently inhibit the development of the pathogenic fungi under study (by 50-80%). Conclusion. The results obtained suggest that Trichoderma atroviride and Trichoderma harzianum can be further employed in the biocontrol of plant diseases.