Characterization of the antagonistic capacity of Trichoderma spp. from agricultural systems

Abstract Diseases caused by crop residue-dependent pathogens have increased during the last decades in Uruguayan agriculture systems, in particular Pyrenophora tritici-repentis and Cochliobolus sativus. Consequently, we searched for the presence of fungal antagonists for these pathogens, particularly Trichoderma. Seven species of Trichoderma inhabiting soils and crop residues were identified. Strains of all identified species had high in vitro antagonistic activity against both pathogens. These results confirm the presence of Trichoderma spp. naturally inhabiting crop residues and soils, with potential to inhibit C. sativus and P. tritici-repentis. Managing antagonist populations is a promising and underdeveloped strategy that warrant further investigation.