Bio-controller Effect of Four Native Strains of Trichoderma spp., on Phytophthora capsici in Manzano Chili (Capsicum pubescens) in Puebla-Mexico

Diversity of the different types of chilies in Mexico has been scarcely studied, and a large variety have been found to be, such as Manzano chili. Root rot caused by oomycete Phytophthora capsici is a severe disease that affects Manzano chili production in Mexico, detracted from its production and quality. The use of biological control agents such as Trichoderma native’s species, represents an efficient alternative to reduce losses and control the disease. For this reason, the objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the antagonistic effect in vitro and in vivo of four native strains of Trichoderma spp., on Phytophthora capsici in seedlings of Manzano chili from Puebla-Mexico was evaluated. Dual culture technique was used to determine the percentage of inhibition of radial growth (PICR) of the PC-A strain of P. capsici. Analysis of the percentage of germination was also carried out, as well as the incidence of root rot at 20 days after inoculation with the pathogen (dai) in the nursery. T. harzianum strain presented the highest PICR (42.86%) of antagonistic level in vitro and class I in the Bell scale, in addition, it obtained 88% germination in the nursery and 10% mortality at 20 dai, higher than the other native strains of Trichoderma. The bio-controlling effect of strains of Trichoderma spp., offers an effective alternative for root necrosis caused by P. capsici in the cultivation of Manzano chili in Puebla-Mexico