Evaluation of antifungal activity of fungal-derived chitosan against Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. under in vitro condition

Abstract

Chitosan, a deacetylated derivative of chitin, has attracted attention in plant disease management due to its biocompatibility and antifungal potential. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal efficacy of purified fungal-derived chitosan against S. rolfsii Sacc., the causal agent of collar rot in several crops. Purified chitosan obtained from T. viride was tested at six concentrations (50, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 ppm) using the poisoned food technique. Results revealed that lower concentrations (50-200 ppm) showed no significant inhibition of mycelial growth, while concentrations of 250 and 300 ppm inhibited the fungus by 10.23% and 16.47%, respectively. This concentration-dependent antifungal activity highlights the potential of fungal chitosan as a biocontrol agent at appropriate doses. These findings support its use in integrated disease management systems, especially for soilborne pathogens like S. rolfsii.