Role of pH and temperature in modulating the growth of Trichoderma asperellum

Abstract

The genus Trichoderma is asexually and sexually reproducing filamentous fungi that are widely distributed. These Trichoderma species are used extensively in agriculture as biocontrol agents to manage plant diseases. In view of this present study was conducted at College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal during the 2021–22 cropping season. In this study, various levels of pH and temperature were evaluated to investigate variations in mycelial growth among the isolates. The pH and temperature are significant factors influencing fungal growth. The study investigated how pH and temperature interact to influence the radial growth, fresh weight and dry weight of Trichoderma asperellum under in vitro conditions. The radial growth of the isolates improved as the temperature rise from 30–34 °C, within a pH range of 4–8. The highest fresh and dry weights of the mycelium were recorded at pH 4 when the temperature was either 26 °C or 30 °C. Radial growth, fresh weight and dry weight of the isolates peaked at 30 °C. Maximum fresh and dry mycelial weights occurred within the pH range of 4–6. This study demonstrated that the interaction between pH and temperature has a significant impact on the growth of T. asperellum isolates. The optimum pH (4–6) and temperature (30 °C) identified in this study can be used to optimise the mass multiplication and commercial production of T. asperellum. These findings will aid in developing efficient bioformulations with improved quality, consistency and biocontrol efficacy.