Fungicide-Specific Responses of Trichoderma viride: Implications for Integrated Disease Management

Abstract

Background: Compatibility of chemical fungicides with beneficial soil fungi is an important factor in sustainable
plant disease management. Aims: In this study, the impact of four commonly used fungicides, mancozeb,
carbendazim, propiconazole, and hexaconazole, on conidial germination, radial growth, and fungicide tolerance
of three Trichoderma viride strains (microbial type culture collection [MTCC] 793, MTCC 800, and a commercial
biofungicide isolate, T1) was assessed. Methodology: Fungicides were tested at ×0.1, ×1, and ×10 concentrations
of the recommended label dose. Results: Carbendazim inhibited germination and mycelial growth completely
at all concentrations, while propiconazole and hexaconazole showed pronounced dose-dependent inhibition.
Mancozeb was found to be less toxic, supporting growth and germination at all strains and concentrations. Strain-
specific variations in tolerance were also noted, with the commercial isolate showing relatively higher tolerance.
Conclusion: This study reveals the presence of pronounced fungicide-specific risks to beneficial Trichoderma
populations and suggests mancozeb as the most compatible fungicide for integrated chemical-biological disease
management approaches. This approach is aligned with the sustainable development goals (SDG) like zero
hunger, responsible consumption and production and life on land corresponds to SDG 2, 12 and 15, respectively.