Exploring Fungal Candidates from Aromatic Rhizosphere as Biological Controls Against Three Pyricularia oryzae...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Pathology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Blast disease, caused by Pyricularia oryzae, significantly reduces global rice yields.
• Genetic variability in P. oryzae and reliance on synthetic fungicides limit effective disease control.
• Exploring natural biological control agents from rice rhizospheres presents a sustainable alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To isolate and identify rhizosphere fungi from organic aromatic rice in North Luwu Regency.
• To evaluate the potential of these fungi as biological control agents against P. oryzae.
• To assess the efficacy of isolated fungi against specific P. oryzae haplotypes (C-011, D-111, F-110).

Main Methods:

• Rhizosphere fungi were isolated using serial dilution and scatter plate methods.
• Fungal identification was based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics.
• Genotyping of P. oryzae isolates was performed using virulence-related gene markers (Erg2, Pwl2, Cut1).

Main Results:

• Twelve fungal isolates were successfully isolated from the aromatic rice rhizosphere.
• Six antagonistic fungal isolates demonstrated significant inhibition against P. oryzae haplotypes.
• Trichoderma spp. exhibited the highest inhibition rates (72-90%), followed by Penicillium sp. (62-82%).

Conclusions:

• Rhizosphere fungi, particularly Trichoderma and Penicillium species, show strong potential as biological control agents against P. oryzae.
• These findings support the development of eco-friendly strategies for managing rice blast disease.
• The study successfully identified natural antagonists effective against specific P. oryzae haplotypes.