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Increasing Bioactive Compound Production in Lettuce by Application of Trichoderma sp. Strain STP8
Božidar Benko1, Mia Dujmović2, Sanja Radman1
1Division of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Department of Vegetable Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
Biomolecules
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Applying native Trichoderma sp. strain STP8 at planting enhances bioactive compounds in lettuce. This sustainable approach improves nutritional quality, with application timing being crucial for efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Pathology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Modern agriculture aims to improve vegetable nutritional quality via sustainable practices.
- Bioactive compounds like flavonoids are key for health benefits but sensitive to stress.
- Biostimulants, particularly Trichoderma spp., enhance plant growth and resilience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of native Trichoderma sp. strain STP8 in boosting bioactive compound production in lettuce.
- To determine the optimal application timing (at planting vs. later) for Trichoderma sp. strain STP8.
Main Methods:
- Lettuce seeds/soil treated with Trichoderma sp. strain STP8 (spore suspension) at planting and/or 26 days after planting (DAP).
- Randomized complete block design with five replicates.
- Analysis of dry matter, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll, carotenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, and antioxidant capacity at harvest (43 DAP).
Main Results:
- Application timing significantly influenced Trichoderma sp. strain STP8 effects on lettuce secondary metabolism and antioxidant properties.
- A single application at planting was most effective for increasing bioactive compound accumulation.
- Native Trichoderma sp. strain STP8 shows potential for improving lettuce nutritional and functional quality.
Conclusions:
- Optimized application timing of Trichoderma-based biostimulants is critical for maximizing their benefits.
- Native Trichoderma strains offer a sustainable strategy for enhancing the health-promoting compounds in lettuce.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the molecular mechanisms underlying Trichoderma-plant interactions.
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