Molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis of Trichoderma species

Abstract

The study focuses on the molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis of Trichoderma species, a genus of soil-borne fungi with important biocontrol potential against plant pathogens. Trichoderma spp., including T. harzianum, T. atroviride, and T. asperellum, are common in rhizospheres and have been employed as biocontrol agents. Using molecular markers like the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) and Translation Elongation Factor 1-alpha (tef1), this research analyzed 21 Trichoderma isolates from southern Rajasthan. DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequence analysis were performed to characterize these isolates. Phylogenetic trees were constructed using ITS and tef1 gene sequences, revealing two main clusters and several sub-clusters, underscoring the genetic diversity among isolates. Molecular techniques proved effective for precise species identification and contributed to understanding Trichoderma's phylogenetic relationships. This study enhances our knowledge of Trichoderma's genetic diversity, supporting its application in biocontrol and ecological studies.