Production of a New Plant Probiotic Based on Indigenous Trichoderma Strains
Technical Knowledge for the Production and Formulation of a New Plant Probiotic (Biocontrol/Biofertilizer) Based on Indigenous Trichoderma Strains
The utilization of biological control agents for plant pests and diseases, as well as biofertilizers, plays a significant role in enhancing agricultural productivity. Moreover, producing healthy crops contributes to environmental conservation and human health. The Trichoderma, due to its high efficiency in controlling numerous plant pathogens and its various growth-promoting attributes, is recognized as one of the most successful biocontrol and biofertilizer products. This achievement stems from 15 years of research led by Dr. Mojegan Kowsari, a member of academic staff at the Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute. The research involved studying 600 isolates of indigenous Trichoderma from different regions of Iran. The investigations included morphological, biochemical, molecular, genetic, and metagenomic analyses, evaluation of biocontrol capabilities against plant pathogens, assessment of growth-promoting properties as a biofertilizer, and formulation testing at greenhouse and field levels. According to the latest private sector data in 2024, over 60,000 hectares of land in the country have been treated with this product. Given the positive response from farmers towards the produced product (marketed under the brand name Trichorooin), it is expected that the production will continue to increase.
For more information, please email PRpr@abrii.ac.ir