Compatibility of bio-control agent Trichoderma harzianum and Aspergillus niger with pesticides

Abstract

New generation pesticides are most frequently used as seed treatment, soil drenching and foliar sprays. These pesticides have not been tested so far against Trichoderma harzianum and Aspergillus niger. Therefore, information is still lacking about the toxicity of these pesticides against different antagonists and plant pathogens. Ten pesticides were screened in in vitro at different concentrations to determine their reaction on radial growth and spore germination of the biocontrol agent T. harzianum and A. niger. Among them, the fungicides viz., carbendazim (12%) + mancozeb (63%), propiconazole and captan (70%) + hexaconazole (5%); insecticide viz., chlorpyphos were toxic to the T. harzianum as well as A. niger. Whereas, cymoxanil (8%) + mancozeb (64%), metalaxyl (8%) + mancozeb (64%), propineb and imidachloprid were safer to the T. harzianum and A. niger. However, Thiamethoxam and carbofuran compatible with T. harzianum and incompatible with A. niger.