Growth Tolerance of Trichoderma afroharzianum JRE 1A, a Zingiberaceous Root Fungal Endophyte to Profenofos and λ-Cyhalothrin

The growth perfomance and possible tolerance of Trichoderma afroharzianum JRE 1Aa rhizome endophytic fungus from Hedychium coronarium, to profenofos and ë-cyhalothrin (2500–20000 ppm)was evaluated. The fungal strain exhibited a better growth and tolerance when exposed to profenofos than λ-cyhalothrin as indicated from the fungal colony diameter, growth rate and effective concentration (EC₅₀) until 14^th day of observation. Biosurfactant was produced significantly during the 10^th day of fermentation on pesticide-containing medium (basal salt medium+agrochemicals) and was highly secreted on λ-cyhalothrincontaining medium. On the basis of present findings, the fungal strain may be recommended for further investigation regarding the nature and chemical identity of its biosurfactant before being applied as a bioremediation agent in the field.