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Trichoderma hamatum: Its hyphal interactions withRhizoctonia solani andPythium spp.
1Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Colorado State University, 80523, Fort Collins, Colorado.
Microbial Ecology
|November 15, 2013
Summary
Trichoderma hamatum parasitizes Pythium spp. and Rhizoctonia solani by forming specialized structures and direct penetration, leading to host cell disintegration. This mycoparasitism involves direct attack and lysis, not antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
- Mycology
Background:
- Pythium spp. and Rhizoctonia solani are significant plant pathogens.
- Trichoderma hamatum is a known mycoparasite with potential for biological control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the hyphal interaction and parasitism mechanisms of Trichoderma hamatum against Pythium spp. and Rhizoctonia solani.
Main Methods:
- Phase-contrast microscopy
- Nomarski differential interference-contrast microscopy to observe hyphal interactions.
Main Results:
- Directed growth of Trichoderma hamatum towards host pathogens.
- Formation of appressorial-like structures and direct hyphal penetration.
- Observed host hyphal vacuolation, shrinkage, collapse, and disintegration.
Conclusions:
- Trichoderma hamatum employs direct parasitism and lysis to attack Pythium spp. and Rhizoctonia solani.
- The interaction is characterized by physical contact and penetration, not antibiotic production.
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