Exploring the multifunctional potential of indigenous Brazilian Trichoderma isolates and developing an innovative, sustainable bioreactor-in-a-granule formulation

Abstract: In a series of studies, we explored the multifunctional potential of two indigenous Brazilian strains, Trichoderma asperelloides CMAA 1584 and Trichoderma lentiforme CMAA 1585, for controlling Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and for promoting growth in cotton plants. Additionally, we proposed an innovative approach to develop a rice flour-based formulation of the biocontrol agent T. asperelloides CMAA 1584, designed to simulate a micro-bioreactor within the full biorefinery context. This approach enables in situ conidiation, extended shelf-life, and effective control of S. sclerotiorum. Our findings revealed that T. asperelloides CMAA 1584 was more effective in parasitizing S.
sclerotiorum, while T. lentiforme CMAA 1585 demonstrated a more pronounced effect on cotton growth. Furthermore, an environmentally friendly bioprocess using rice flour as the main feedstock was successfully implemented to develop waste-free granular formulations of Trichoderma conidia. Such formulations successfully suppressed Sclerotinia and improved the shelf-life of the biofungicide.