Contouring Multifaceted Biological Activities and Applications of Trichoderma spp. for Managing Plant Health

Abstract

An increasing human population will lead to a higher demand for food, posing significant global challenges. To achieve sustainable agriculture, utilizing microorganisms is a promising alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, minimizing risks to both the environment and the food chain. The utilization of Trichoderma fungus is considered one of the most effective eco friendly practices and has garnered significant attention due to its opportunistic nature and co mopolitan distribution. Notably, Trichoderma spp. in agroecosystems not only exhibit efficacy against phytopathogens and pests as biocontrol agents but also serve as valuable and convenient models in agricultural studies and environmental evaluations. Although these fungi are renowned for their numerous beneficial effects, they carry a potential risk of contamination to different species of mushrooms. In conclusion, this review sheds light on the multifaceted role of Trichoderma in both plant health and environmental contexts. This study provides a comprehensive overview of its mechanism of action and pathways, metabolite production, and checklists for biocontrol, formulation, and bioremediation. The current limited understanding of the effects of Trichoderma spp. in agroecosystems emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive studies to uncover its functions and roles. Conducting extensive research on the interactions of Trichoderma within diverse agricultural ecosystems will clarify its contributions to various aspects, including plant growth and well-being, nutrient cycling, soil fertility, disease suppression, microbial communities, overall sustainability, and potentially other ecosystem services.