Exploring Trichoderma spp. for Biocontrol of Fusarium Wilt and Growth Enhancement in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is an economically important pulse crop around the world, including Pakistan. However, its productivity per hectare is limited due to Fusarium wilt, which is caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Foc) and poor farming practices. This study examined the ability of two Trichoderma spp. and one bacterial strain, Bacillus subtilis, to combat Foc and their effects on disease control and chickpea growth. The antagonistic activity was examined using a dual culture assay. Pot and field experiments were conducted to study disease severity, growth characteristics, and yield performance. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and rhizoscanning were carried to study root colonization and morphology. Dual culture assay showed 69% growth inhibition of Foc by both Trichoderma spp. The pot experiments revealed significant growth improvements and defense-related enzymes. Microscopy confirmed effective root colonization and suppression of pathogen structures along chickpea roots. Rhizoscanning revealed better root morphological characteristics. In field experiments involving susceptible (Bittle 98) and resistant (Pb2008) chickpea cultivars in both wilt sick and healthy soils, 90% reduction in disease incidence and an increase in grain yield was observed. Overall, Trichoderma species showed more effective performance than the bacterial treatment for managing Fusarium wilt. These fungal biocontrol agents could be applied in Pakistan for sustainably improving chickpea growth and yield.