Assessment of Pseudomonas spp. against Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum and Pythium ultimum pathogens of pea

Abstract

Pea (Pisum sativum) cultivation is frequently threatened by soilborne pathogens, notably Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum, and Pythium ultimum. This research paper explores the potential of Pseudomonas spp. as biocontrol agents to manage these pathogens. In the present study, an attempt was made to isolate Pseudomonas spp., a potent plant growth promoting rhizobacteria in the rhizosphere. The study demonstrated the presence of fluorescent and nonfluorescent Pseudomonads in the rhizosphere of pea through appropriate microbiological and biochemical methods. Fifteen isolates of Pseudomonas were isolated from rhizosphere and identified by biochemical tests. The present study deals with series of in vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of different Pseudomonas strains in inhibiting soil borne pathogen growth. Five strains were tested for their antagonistic potential against Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum and Pythium ultimum. The study exhibited that all Pseudomonas strains significantly inhibited the growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi, Rhizoctonia solani and Pythium ultimum as compared to control. Findings of the study indicates that Pseudomonas spp. exhibit significant antagonistic activity against the targeted pathogens, suggesting their potential for integrated pest management in pea crops.