Effect of mycoparasitism and volatile compounds of Trichoderma and Aspergillus spp on Penicillium and Aspergillus causing storage rot of gladiolus

Four biocontrol agents viz. Trichoderma viride, T. harzianam, T. virens and Aspergillus terms were used against Penicillium gladioli and Aspergillus niger causing conn rot of gladiolus during storage. Dual culture technique was used for evaluation of biocontrol efficacy. Biocontrol agents were inoculated 24 h before, after and simultaneously with pathogens in case of dual culture studies on mycoparasitism and volatile compounds released by antagonists. Results indicated that all Trichoderma species were effective against both the pathogens. Volatile compounds produced by Trichoderma species were also effective in reducing colony diameter of pathogens. T. harzianum was most effective against P. gladioli whereas T. viride against A. niger. Mycoparasitism and production of volatile compounds were the prominent mechanisms of biocontrol by Trichoderma species. A. terms was least effective against both the pathogens.