Effect of pH, temperature and antagonistic activity of bio�control agents against Bipolaris maydis incited by maydis leaf blight in maize

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most versatile emerging crops having wider adaptability under varied agro-climatic conditions. Globally, maize is known as queen of cereals because it has the highest genetic yield potential among the cereals. Maydis leaf blight (MLB) or Southern corn leaf blight (SCLB) caused by Bipolaris maydis (Nisikado) Shoemaker is a serious foliar disease of maize distributed widely in maize producing areas throughout the world where grown under warm and humid conditions. Members of the genus Pseudomonas, Bacillus and Trichoderma have been known for their potential antifungal, plant growth promoting and plant defense inducing activities. In the present investigation an attempt has been made to study the in vitro efficacy of bio-control agents against Bipolaris maydis. The antagonistic effect of bio-control agents were observed by the dual culture technique and poisoned food technique under the in vitro conditions. Among the various bio-control agents T. harzianum shows the maximum antagonistic effect against Bipolaris maydis.