Potential of Trichoderma Spp. in The Biological Control of Weeds


Fidan E., Yergin Özkan R.

VII. International Agricultural, Biological & Life Science Conference, İstanbul, Türkiye, 7 - 10 Eylül 2025, ss.157, (Özet Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: İstanbul
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Türkiye
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.157
  • Van Yüzüncü Yıl Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Weeds are among the major pests causing yield loss in agricultural production. This situation has led to the intensive use of herbicides. However, herbicide application poses significant risks in terms of environmental pollution, resistance development, and human health. In this regard, the need for environmentally friendly, sustainable, and integrated plant protection strategies is steadily increasing. Trichoderma species are naturally occurring filamentous fungi in the soil with a high reproduction rate. These species, which are widely used in agriculture, possess multiple biological functions such as promoting plant growth, providing biocontrol against pathogenic organisms, and improving soil health. Recent studies have shown that certain Trichoderma isolates can suppress weed seed germination, inhibit root development, and trigger oxidative stress responses. These effects are generally associated with the secondary metabolites, cell wall-degrading enzymes, and competitive colonization capabilities produced by Trichoderma. Some of the compounds and enzymes released by Trichoderma can prevent weed seed germination, slow down or completely halt the growth of young seedlings. Such effects may occur through various mechanisms, including the disruption of cell structures and the inhibition of nutrient and water uptake. Several studies have demonstrated that species such as Trichoderma harzianum and T. viride can significantly suppress the growth of weeds like Amaranthus spp., Chenopodium spp., and Phalaris sp. Moreover, Trichoderma species can rapidly spread in the soil, competing with weeds in the rhizosphere and limiting their habitat. For these reasons, in recent years, Trichoderma species have been considered not only as agents against plant diseases but also as environmentally friendly biological agents for weed control.